A CAMPAIGN to raise awareness of a genetic condition has been launched by the family of a ten-month-old baby who died of the disorder.

Nathan James Morrison, described by his parents as their little angel sent from heaven, died on May 12 after battling with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA).

Nathan's parents, Gillian Petty and Nigel Morrison, aim to raise £5,000 for the Jennifer Trust for Spinal Muscular Atrophy charity and increase awareness.

Nathan was suffering from SMA's most severe form, type one - the most common fatal genetic disorder for children under two.

Symptoms include limp and floppy limbs, problems swallowing when feeding and breathing difficulties.

There is no known cure or treatment.

Miss Petty, 26, said: "Nathan was always smiling. His eyes were really big, expressive and smiley.

"He was so placid - a really good baby. He never really cried and I never had a situation where he had a tantrum."

The couple realised something was wrong with Nathan within a few months of his birth when he failed to reach his milestones.

He was floppy with poor limb control and had difficulty feeding.

In December last year, he was admitted to hospital with breathing problems. He was allowed home in January after his condition improved.

Tests were carried out and he was diagnosed with SMA.

The couple researched the condition and contacted the Jennifer Trust, which supplied advice, equipment to help Nathan and gave emotional support to the couple.

Miss Petty said: "They were really, really supportive. I feel like I need to support the trust for all they did for us."

Nathan was given medication, oxygen and a machine to help him swallow, and the family were shown physiotherapy techniques.

In March, Nathan deteriorated, but he battled through and was allowed home again.

On May 10, Nathan took a turn for the worse and died two days later.

On a webpage dedicated to Nathan, who left a sister, Sophie, the family wrote: "We could not have wished for a better son. He was perfect, his big blue eyes would tell a story and his smile would melt your heart. He was amazing - our little angel sent from heaven.

"Nathan has made us all better people, brought us closer together. He will never be forgotten and will be loved forever.

"It is all very hard, but so rewarding.

If you asked us to do it again, we would a million times over if it meant having our little boy back again."

The family have organised two fundraising events for the Jennifer Trust - a family fun day on Saturday, July 26, in the park off Widdowfield Street, Darlington, and a three-course dinner and disco at Blackwell Grange Hotel, Darlington, on Friday, September 12.

Businesses are being asked to donate raffle prizes for the dinner.

To help or donate money, email gillianpetty82@yahoo.co.uk