Rainbows raise �720 towards the cost of a special helmet to help strengthen Isabelle’s skull

YOUNGSTERS from Axminster’s Rainbow Playgroup pulled on their walking boots – to put a toddler on the road to recovery.

They raised �720 through their sponsored trek from Seaton to Beer and back in November to help pay for a special helmet for nine-month-old Isabelle Parker.

The toddler, whose brother Christopher, three, attends the playgroup, was born with plagiocephaly, also known as “Flathead Syndrome” - a condition characterised by a flattening on one side of the back of the head.

Staff, parents and friends at Rainbow decided to help out when they heard parents Mike and Mel Parker needed to raise �2,000 for treatment which is not available on the NHS.

Yesterday (Wednesday) playgroup manager Clare Male handed over their contribution towards the cost and said she hoped more donors would come forward to help with the bill.

“Anyone who wants to give money can contact me on 01297 35956,” she said.

Isabelle’s parents believe her condition was caused because of the way she was positioned alongside her twin sister, Jasmine, during her mum’s pregnancy.

They say she is responding well since being fitted with the special hat.

“There has been a big improvement since she started and we are confident it will help to rectify her skull,” said Mr Parker

Because they got no NHS help towards the helmet the couple faced an uphill struggled to find the money and say they are really grateful for the playgroup’s help.

“We have been overwhelmed, we were not expecting it at all,” said Mr Parker, who runs a local car valeting service.

Mrs Male added: “When we heard about the need for a special helmet, and the cost, we wanted to do all we could to help.

“We want to thank to all the parents who sponsored us and those who took part.”