Hi my name is Francine Butler and I have been a lifelong friend of Natalie Mawson who many of you will be aware has not only faced her own multiple illnesses but is a single parent to 5 boys, an 8 year old son with multiple diagnoses and learning difficulties but more recently despite multiple referrals her 6 year old son became extremely ill. A mass was discovered on his brain which has damaged his optic nerve and emergency treatment was required due to excessive fluid around his brain. Unfortunately Theo had an adverse reaction to the treatment and was seriously ill for a long period. He has open access to hospital but is back at home but his conditions have many impacts on his life. He has been diagnosed with ICP and the medication for that has resulted in other deficiencies which are also impacted him. His mobility, sleep and emotions have changed as has his vision and he regularly rushed back to hospital due to pain and additional tests being needed. My friend Natalie has been on waiting lists for multiple assessments on both children in addition to this and has recently paid privately several times for her 8 year old to be assessed. Her son requires her care constantly which is currently impacting her ability to work. She has been advised even for Theo’s conditions the waiting lists will delay things so has sought private advice but the costs are expensive in addition to specialist equipment she is hiring until these assessments take place. I am looking to help Natalie raise funds to speed up assessments for Theo and pay privately which can be done within a month and help in terms of support that Theo needs. Additionally any additional costs will go towards additional assessments he requires as well as assessments and equipment for her older son Vinnie. Natalie has fought hard for support but as we know services are under a lot of strain and as a mum she does not want her son to have delays in treatment which could improve his quality of life, the same for her older son.