THE LEGACY of a Kenilworth youngster whose first words in 18 months were spoken when his Make-a-Wish was granted, will live on in the charity’s Christmas campaign,
George Young was diagnosed with rare genetic condition Batten Disease when he was just three. The degenerative illness, for which there’s no cure, meant he gradually lost the ability to walk, talk and feed himself.
The four-year-old spoke for the first time in 18 months after the wish-granting charity made his tobogganing dreams come true. And now he is the focus of the charity’s 2020 Christmas campaign, which launches today (Monday).
His mum, Claire, devised a bucket and spade list’ so they could enjoy adventures together during the time he had left. His wish to go tobogganing in Austria with his family in 2018 was one of those adventures.
Claire filmed George’s reaction to the thrilling toboggan ride and said it gave her cherished memories – including the moment he responded ‘yes’ to her when she asked if he was having a good time. That footage is something she has been able to look back on after George sadly died last year.
Now, Claire is delighted that her son’s story will be his legacy – helping to raise money so other families in similar situations can benefit from a wish.
Visit www.make-a-wish.org.uk/george to watch the film premiere of George’s wish on YouTube channel tonight at 7pm.
Follow the charity on social media @makeawishuk for more information.
