We received Elis' diagnosis of a rare genetic disorder that affects the development of the brain and nervous system in November 2020. After finding out about Playskill online, we got in touch with Playskill immediately because we knew he'd have challenges that they could support us with. He was behind in meeting many of his milestones, such as walking, babbling and even smiling and his diagnosis confirmed that he would likely always need support to reach his full potential.

Elis is now five years old and started at Playskill when he was one. Playskill was the first service we received that offered us regular sessions of therapies. They offered Elis weekly physio, OT & SLT but also gave us support to continue the therapies at home. Playskill really pushed Elis and gave us a whole variety of exercises to try at home, as well as advice on equipment or other services such as the lycra clinic. Elis is developing new skills which I can credit to the work at Playskill, and most importantly he seems to really enjoy the sessions; he loves the singing, hello button and snack time!

Being part of Playskill makes me feel normal in a world where it can be tough being a parent of a child with complex needs. It's where I'm surrounded by other families going through the same things who understand us completely, and by therapists who know Elis inside out and how to support him. It's also given us confidence to support Elis with therapies at home, and provided us with a much needed friend and support network.

I always rave about Playskill to others. It's such a lovely charity and we're so lucky to have this support available to us in Hertfordshire. I'd feel a little lost without it, there's nothing else like it.

Last year I took part in Playskill's fundraising walk with Helping Herts. As well as being a great opportunity to spend time with and get to know people who have a connection to the charity, it's a really great feeling to be able to raise funds to give back to Playskill so they can continue to give support to other families. Playskill have helped our family so much, I almost feel like there's not enough I can do to say thank you, but fundraising is a start.

- Helen, Elis' mum