We are Jarrod and Fiona Lloyd, and this is what we believe our beautiful son, Benny would say if he could...
Hi, my name is Benny and I am 4 years old. I live with my parents, Jarrod and Fiona, and my older brother, Jimmy. My nickname has always been Benny Booster and so Mum is naming my charity ‘Boost for Benny’ to help achieve the developmental boost that I need.
I was born with hydrocephalus and a cyst on my brain - I also have cerebral palsy and show signs of autism. I have had far too many surgeries in my life and don’t particularly like hospital, although it’s ok when Mum is there. Mum is my champion and she feeds me every night through a tube in my stomach. I think she and my doctors would like me to gain more weight and eat more during the day. I also think she would like me to talk to people, and sleep more and says I’m a ‘challenge’ to get to sleep! She thinks these things will help my development.
I love going to Day Care and I especially love my Carer - I can tell my classmates care for me as they look out for me during the day. I also go to Geebung Special School one day a week for kindy, I have fun and everyone there is so good to me. I know my way around the place now. Mum and Dad believe in me and can see my potential. One day I would love to be able to go to school with Jimmy and his friends.
Of all the things in the world, after Mum, Dad and Jimmy, I love animals the best. I really love puzzles with animals in it. Mum says I even sing Old MacDonald in my sleep! Maybe one day I can work with animals?
Each week Mum takes me to therapists to work on my skills. Apparently I need more help with my motor, speech, feeding, cognitive and behavioral skills. I don’t say much and when I want something, I drag people by the hand and point. I’m getting to know some words. I love using the iPad too - Mum has been looking at new software for me.
Mum and Dad have also been looking at the AEIOU School and I am on a waiting list. It is the only school of its kind in Brisbane and Mum says there are childhood educators and therapists there, specialising in autism. She thinks it will help me.
I think this all costs her and Dad a lot.
Our gorgeous son is such a pleasure to be with and he brings out the best in everyone he meets. We would love for him to reach his full potential, but we need financial help - there are a number of ways to achieve this, including:
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Taking part in The Developing Foundation’s Annual Riverwalk. Held on Sunday, 14th September 2014 at Orleigh Park, Hill End Terrace, West End. You can register to walk alongside our family, join us in collecting donations for this event or by promoting it amongst friends, family and work colleagues. www.riverwalk.org.au
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You can make a donation on our webpage to help us reach our fundraising target. http://www.developingfoundation.org.au/family/boostforbenny Look for the Donate now button on this page. All donations over $2 are tax deductible. You can also share this site with friends and family.
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Please visit our Facebook page https://facebook.com/boostforbenny and press LIKE.
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We will have other fundraising events from time to time which will be listed on this website. http://www.developingfoundation.org.au/help-give-raise-funds/personal-appeals.
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You can even create your own personal appeal for our Ben. See the left column of this page or click this link http://www.developingfoundation.org.au/help-give-raise-funds.
If you have questions or ideas for fundraising please feel free to contact Jarrod or myself on our email www.boostforbenny@yahoo.com or on 0405 045 605.