The Glasshouse
For many families in the area, the charity is a lifeline, so as a team, we have been working hard to fundraise in any way we can. From staff bake sales and raffles to an ambitious 220km rowing challenge, nothing has been off limits. On 28 September, we’ll be lacing up our boots for The Great Big Walk for Herts. This sponsored walk promises to be an inspiring day, bringing together people from all over the county to support local causes like Playskill.
As we gear up for the event, we’re reminded of the powerful impact Playskill has had on so many lives. At just 13 months old, Tim’s daughter, Cara, was diagnosed with a disorder called CDG which affects speech and motor skills. There are currently around 10,000 people diagnosed with the condition worldwide with more than 170 variations, meaning it is very rare. Although research is moving forward at pace, there is no cure at the moment. However, with the support of Playskill, Cara and her family have received expert guidance and therapy, and are now hopeful for the future. Here, Tim shares more.
“When it became clear Cara was disabled, our first response was disbelief. We then got started on working out what support we could find and where from. We didn’t know what would be best for Cara so we just gathered all that was on offer.
We’ve been going to Playskill for around three years now. Playskill is a supportive community of practitioners who know what they’re doing and are ferociously determined to support children with additional needs. We were particularly lucky to have their support via Zoom during COVID-19, when all other services shut down. Once the sessions re-opened, chatting to other parents and professionals was invaluable. We get anecdotal expertise and a chance to exchange advice, tips and contacts.
The therapists have always understood Cara, taking the time to tailor to her needs. Being flexible if she’s felt upset, clingy, or has difficulty communicating. Their perseverance has paid off and it’s heart-warming to see her development.
In addition to therapies and groups, the events they run have a friendly community feel. A chance to meet staff and parents outside of Cara’s session and see children with varying levels of disability, at different stages in their journey. This access has given us confidence and assertiveness to check in with expert practitioners and a steer on where to focus efforts and discussion points with her nursery and with medical professionals at Great Ormond Street.
Thanks to Playskill, we are part of a supportive community and the isolation we initially felt has gone. We feel much more in control of Cara’s development with the team’s expertise.”
Join us on 28 September for The Great Big Walk For Herts in support of Playskill. Can’t make it? You can still make a difference by donating here.
