A girl who could only move her eyes after a stroke at seven months old has made a “remarkable” recovery.
Charlotte Baldwin, from Eastbourne, is 12 years old now and can swim, ride a trike, drive a powered wheelchair and use a walker with one-to-one support.
She was born healthy until she was struck down by a rare genetic disorder called glutaric aciduria type one.
All she could move was her eyes as she became very unwell.
Charlotte’s mum Mariel said: "She is a very determined and incredibly kind little girl.
"She can now do far more than just use her eyes.”
The family put her “remarkable” recovery down to their daughter’s determination and support from Chailey Heritage Foundation, a charity which helps children and young adults with complex physical disabilities.
"The charity has helped Charlotte in so many ways,” said Ms Baldwin.
“She leads a really active life now which is incredible. With support, she is able to go swimming, ride her bike and use a stander.
"For once in her life, I can take a deep breath and just enjoy being her mum and seeing her achievements.
"She now uses WhatsApp and everyone knows when she sends me a message because I get so excited and show everyone around me.
"She is comfortable being cared for and she sees her friends being cared for as well, so she doesn't have an issue with it. She will have peace in her life."
Julie Tilbury, one of the specialist teachers at Chailey Heritage School said: “Children and young people we support are treated with dignity and respect.
“We help them to be as independent as possible.
"They get the physical activity they need and the support that they need.
"They might learn to do something by themselves, or they may direct someone to help them do it.
"We support them alongside the child, with the child, and not to the child. That is really, really important.
"All staff at Chailey have a passion to get the best out of life for the children here.
"You won't find anyone here who doesn't have that passion."
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