The world is inaccessible to many wheelchair users.

As our daughter grows we became acutely aware of how limiting the world is. Whilst a number of places think that they do support wheelchair access the reality is somewhat different. Even a small step can make the whole place out of bounds.

At the start we could not get into some shops. Then we could not get into some music venues. Theatres provide wheelchair access, but with restricted view. Access to those places is a nice have, but not essential, so we did not bother much.

Then we needed a dentist and small step meant that it was not accessible when needed.

Finally, when we started discussing Sophia going to secondary school a number of school simply refused the entry because they could not accommodate a wheelchair access due to age of the buildings or structures which could not have lifts installed. Access to good education for someone like Sophia is a life changing must have as the only career path for her is through use of her fierce intellect - but it must be nurtured and therefore need access to best schools now and universities later.

Recently Sophia tried a new type of wheelchair which can go up the stairs. This wheelchair can go in restaurants, theatres, shops and most importantly schools! This wheelchair means that Sophia can receive education based on her ability rather than on lift installation. This wheelchair means Sophia could visit her friends in their houses and be included in many activities instead of sitting on the step outside and look into through a doorway. Basically, we cannot adapt the world to Sophia's needs, but we can bridge the gap for her!

This is life changing technology that truly expands world into numerous possibilities! Sadly, this wheelchair can only be purchased from only one place and it costs £55k! Whilst we will contribute as much as we can save over the next few months the sum is simply not achievable and we must request support from anybody who is able to help.

So, please help us make the world accessible for Sophia.

We are happy to answer any questions.

Mum and Dad

7.5% of all donations to Tree of Hope in relation to this appeal will be allocated to the general charitable purposes of Tree of Hope to cover our core operating costs.

If we raise insufficient funds, or surplus funds, they will be used, if appropriate, to fund support for our child’s needs in accordance with Tree of Hope’s charitable objectives. If, in those circumstances, we are unable to use all or part of the funds for the benefit of our child, any funds that cannot be used will be transferred to be used for the general charitable purposes of Tree of Hope.