Alfie’s first car

2020 was an extremely challenging year for many, however, for 21-month-old Alfie it was the year he received his driver’s licence.

Alfie was diagnosed after birth with a rare genetic condition, Merosin Deficient Muscular Dystrophy.

The condition means he has severe, progressive muscle weakness and has more difficulty than his peers in reaching his movement and mobility milestones, which includes walking.

Alfie’s team of doctors and occupational therapists at the John Hunter Children’s Hospital recently requested a Wizzybug be purchased. Specifically designed for toddlers, Wizzybug is an electrically powered wheelchair for indoor and outdoor use that helps children with disabilities explore their world independently.

Thanks to the John Hunter Children’s Hospital Keeping Dreams Alive monthly giving partners and wider family of supporters, the Children’s Hospital was able to respond to the need to purchase the Wizzybug for the Children’s Hospital’s equipment loan pool.

Alfie is from Tamworth, but he popped down to visit his specialists from the Neuromuscular and Paediatric Palliative Care Services at the John Hunter Children’s Hospital in Newcastle to learn how to drive his new ride, the Wizzybug.

For more information about how you can support patients like Alfie at the John Hunter Children’s Hospital please visit www.hnekidshealth.nsw.gov.au or call 02 4921 4492.