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Colchester boy’s family fundraising for equipment to help with illness
William Goodson, 6, of Messing, Colchester, was diagnosed with Angelman Syndrome at just nine months old.
William suffers frequent seizures, is non-verbal and cannot walk unaided.
He has also contracted a life-limiting superbug which attacks his respiratory system.
The inspiring youngster frequently stops breathing and has endured more than 50 trips to the hospital and in ambulances so far.
As a result of his condition, William will never be able to live independently.
William’s parents Andrew and Emma fundraise constantly for therapies and equipment for their son which are not available on the NHS.
Andrew has already run more than 150 miles over four events this year, with the Saxon 100-mile run coming up next month, followed by the Saltmarsh 75-mile race in July and the 200km Hootiful Hundreds in September.
Meanwhile, Emma will be taking part in the 100-mile Ride London Essex in May, a two-mile Serpentine swim in September, the Chicago Marathon in October and the Portsmouth Coastal Marathon in December.
Between the two, they expect to cover more than 600 miles in fundraising events this year.
William and his four-year-old brother Eli will also be taking part in events, starting with a 2km Junior Park Run in June.
The challenge has been dubbed ‘Hundreds of Miles for Hundreds of Smiles’.
Current fundraising priorities include an adapted trike, a wheelchair with off-road facility so they can take William to the beach and the woods more easily, and a hydrotherapy pool.
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Andrew said: “William loves being in water and it also helps with his strength and mobility.
“We used to be able to take William to a hydrotherapy pool where he loved simply walking around.
“It was really good for his muscles and if he lost his balance, it didn’t matter.
“Sadly, that pool is now closed, but we would love to be able to replicate it at home.
“We are very lucky to have supportive friends, family and community and are incredibly grateful for every penny donated, all of which goes towards a better quality of life for William.
“He spreads smiles and joy to all he meets.”
To donate to William’s fund, visit treeofhope.org.uk/william-goodson/.
