A RALLYING call has been issued for the community to get behind a fundraiser for specialist equipment to help a two-year-old non-verbal girl find her voice.
Dottie Loveridge from Stourport was born with a genetic neurological condition, cysts on the brain and autism which means she is unable to understand or communicate with the world around her.
Despite her daily challenges, her mum Gemma said she was still the happiest, funny, cutest and most loving little girl many people would meet.
Now she, her family and friends are trying to raise £8,000 to fund a communication tablet device and assistant eye tracker which would enable Dottie to communicate and understand those closest to her. It will also provide ongoing help with her developmental delays and disabilities.
Life transforming
And Gemma has been informed of specialist treatment that is available for her in the US which could potentially transform her life and quality of living.
The start of the fundraising journey will begin with a special ‘Give Dottie Her Voice’ event at the Severns Club in Stourport from 3pm to 7pm next Saturday, May 3.
The event will feature local DJ SoulCarrot and other live music acts, along with games, raffles, a tombola, bottle raffle, cake sale, face painting and ponies.
Any help is welcome
Gemma said: “We’d like to thank everyone who has agreed to help so far and ask others who feel they can help – whether through donating money or raffle prizes or by giving their time to help ensure the event runs smoothly – to get in touch.
“Any help is so much appreciated and every little goes a long way to reaching our target.”
Family friend Lois Maguire added: “It has been so lovely already how much the Stourport community has come together, donating their time, unwanted gifts and more.
“Support has been given by the Severns Club, the White Hart, Hartlebury Castle, Cath’s Cafe and people locally are digging deep to donate money too.”
Among other items needed are unopened bottles for a bottle raffle, raffle and auction prizes and helpers on the day.
“Most of all we are asking for people to come along on the day – have a dance and enjoy themselves.”
A fundraising page has been set up at: gofundme.com/f/dotties-voice/ where people can donate and updates will be provided.
