Three year old Kit Van Berckel has Athetoid Cerebral Palsy (CP). Kit and his family received one of Cerebra’s specially designed sledges just in time for the snow earlier this year. The sledge has a seat that is perfect for Kit, providing him the support to sit upright so he could ride in it comfortably. It was designed and built by Cerebra’s Innovation Centre based at Swansea Metropolitan University.

The Cerebra Innovation Centre (CIC) is a small team of designers and engineers producing novel and unique equipment for disabled children. The CIC was originally set up because although some equipment is available to buy, it often doesn’t look very nice or it does not suit the requirements of some children. They develop logical solutions that aim to reduce some of the social stigma attached to disabilities by making good-looking, stylish and functional products.

Kit’s mum Joanna told us that this was the first time he was ever able to go sledging, calling it a “magical two hours.” Everyone at Cerebra is glad that the work we do can help improve the lives of children like Kit, and is grateful to all of our generous supporters who make it possible.

Approximately 10% of children with Cerebral Palsy have Athetoid CP, which affects the cerebellum or the basal ganglia, parts of the brain that control posture and coordinated movement. This, along with low muscle tone, can result in involuntary movements affecting speech, feeding and many small everyday tasks we might take for granted.