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AIMAN'S MITO MISSION Twelve-year-old Aiman and his family, from Rochdale, are on a mission to raise awareness of Mitochondrial Disease (Mito), following Aiman’s diagnosis five years ago.
Mito, which has no known treatment or cure, is currently being highlighted in a Coronation Street storyline and often described as “living life on a low battery that can’t be charged”. Mum Sabrina explained: “It's a genetic condition which affects energy production and has many variations. Aiman becomes tired very quickly and if he exerts himself in any way he can become very poorly. Aiman’s body gives him many limitations but we’re determined to give him the best possible life we can. Aiman struggles at times and becomes frustrated but is such a friendly, happy, kind and caring boy who is loved by everyone. This is a progressive disease, but we’re determined to remain positive and pass positive vibes to Aiman”. Mitochondrial Disease Awareness Week runs 13th-19th September 2020. You can help raise awareness by following and sharing on social @aimans_mito_mission. Aiman also has a JustGiving page raising funds for My Mito Mission which goes towards research and support projects. Visit: www.mymitomission.uk/aimansmitomission
WHITWORTH'S RAY OF SUNSHINE Five-year-old Leo Poulter, from Whitworth, spent lockdown spreading joy in his local community. After breaking his arm in May, the team at Rochdale Infirmary made him a special rainbow cast because they loved his optimism and bravery. Leo, who is registered blind, couldn’t continue to learn Braille or take part in his online dance lessons at Samba Dance so he took up a more sedate hobby while his arm healed - planting sunflowers. Mum, Sam Poulter, commented: “Leo wanted to give the sunflowers as presents to make people smile, so with social distancing in mind, we put them on the wall outside our house and advertised them as free. He got such amazing feedback and within a couple of hours they were all gone!”. After seeing how happy it made people, Leo spent the next few weeks planting a variety of plants and flowers for his community, including cornflowers and pansies. The inspirational youngster also chalked a rainbow hopscotch and obstacle course outside his house. Sam added: “He spent most of his day watching people through the window and it made him laugh so much”. After having his cast removed, Leo is now excited to be back dancing, while still growing plants for his neighbourhood.
54 | Rochdale Style
