Freya has already beaten her original fundraising target of £500 (Credit: First Step)
Freya took 100 steps in her walking frame today on what would have been Captain Sir Tom Moore’s 101st birthday.
She will complete another 100 steps each day over this bank holiday weekend for First Step.
The charity, based in Tangmere Crescent, helps young children like Freya who have special needs and disabilities.
“Freya was diagnosed with cerebral palsy at eight months old after suffering a traumatic birth that led to HIE grade 2 brain damage due to oxygen deprivation,” said her mother, Emily.
“This affects all four limbs, which makes it hard for Freya to carry out everyday challenges such as walking.”
Mark Halls, CEO of First Step, described Freya as an “inspiration”.
“Every step that she takes is a challenge but she is absolutely determined to do that and to be able to walk,” he said.
“She loves it. She is an enthusiastic, smiling, little girl and she speaks and challenges me with what she’s actually doing for us.”
Emily said the charity has been a “god send” for her and Freya.
“First Step has given us hope & got us prepared for Freya to start a mainstream nursery soon,” she added.
The charity is currently working with 79 children and have supported hundreds of other kids since 1988.
It continued to provide support virtually during the coronavirus pandemic and has been holding one-to-one sessions since Christmas.
Freya originally wanted to raise £500 but has already collected more than £3,000.
Mark was not surprised though. He said: “I think people have been touched and inspired by what this young lady is doing to overcome her challenges and I think that has inspired people to give and be very generous.”
If you would like to make a donation, you can do so online here.
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Tags: Havering, Charity, Hornchurch, Captain Tom
