The mother of a severely autistic young girl has said her family can enjoy a new beginning, thanks to the fund-raising efforts of a city pub.
Samantha Bremner (39) said she does not know how to say thank you to everyone who contributed to the fund for her 10-year-old daughter April last week.
Nearly £5000 was raised, which will be used to install sensory equipment in April’s bedroom. It is hoped it will make life easier for her and the rest of her family, including her three-year-old brother Frankie.
April’s autism is so severe that she spends weekdays at a school in Alloa for children with the condition. However, when she returns to the family home outside Dundee on weekends, her behaviour can often be uncontrollable.
As well as breaking furniture, crockery and light fittings, April punches herself in the head.
Two years ago, she had to be rushed to hospital to remove a blood clot caused by one of these episodes, but now single mum Samantha hopes the sensory equipment will transform her daughter’s life.
“April is severely autistic and has a lot of other associated neurological problems,” she said. “She has very complex needs and a complete lack of understanding when it comes to personal dangers.
“April can’t go out by herself because she isn’t aware of the consequences of something like stepping out in front of a car.
“She can’t go to Brownies or go out to play or do anything else girls do.”
Last week, Samantha’s friends decided to raise money to help the family.
“Jean Douglas helped and then Angela Halford, who runs the Old Horseshoe Bar, said she had the perfect venue,” Samantha said. “The donations are still coming in but they have raised nearly £5000 all in one night.
“They had a raffle, auctions, local businesses got involved and even bands played. Four guys in kilts were even auctioned off.
“Everybody pulled together and it is just absolutely amazing. I don’t know how to thank everyone.
“The sensory room will help April and I feel like this is a new beginning for her and for Frankie, her brother. It’s hard being the sibling of a sister or brother who has these needs.”