THANKS to the generosity of friends, family and the community baby Isabella who has an extremely rare genetic condition affecting around one in 50,000 babies a year – has benefited from a therapy dog, after raising more than £1,000 in a charity fun run.

Isabella who was born on March, 31, to Katie and William Richards was diagnosed with Cri du Chat, a very rare chromosome deletion syndrome – leaving her unable to crawl or walk, due to the condition slowing her development.

There is currently no cure or treatment, and she will most likely live for around five years.

The festive charity fun run was organised entirely by family friend Toni Louise Greenway, along with the help of Gaynor and Natalie, with all funds going back to the Richards.

Katie and William donned festive outfits as they raced around the muddy field with Isabella, both of whom were overwhelmed with the outcome of people.

Katie said: “The fun run was a massive success, it was just brilliant and the children loved it as well. I didn’t realise how hard it would be, and it was harder for Will as he was pushing Isabella in the pushchair.

“It is brilliant to be able to raise this amount of money. We have already spent some on a therapy dog Tilly, a beagle for the disabled. Isabella loves her. Tilly is a puppy and is currently chewing everything, but she is so calm around Isabella – she is very good.

“We are taking her to be trained with a Farnham dog trainer, who will take Isabella and Tilly out together.”

Participants stayed afterwards for refreshments, as organisers handed out prizes kindly donated by the community, one of which being £200 worth of Specsavers vouchers.

Katie expressed her gratitude to those who made the day such a success. “I would love to thank Toni for everything she has done for our family, without her it wouldn’t have happened. She works full time, she has two young children and she used all of her own money.

“I’ve only known her a year and we clicked straight away – she is the most selfless person I know.

“Also everyone who had a part in helping, the Aldershot Traction Club for hosting the event and to everyone who donated. Thank you so much.”

Donators have suggested that the Richards take themselves away for a long weekend using the remains of the funds raised – a much deserved break away for the whole family to remember.

Keep up to date with all the latest news and see how Isabella is doing by checking out their Facebook page ‘Isabella’s Cri Du Chat Journey’, which currently has more than 1,450 followers.