A NORTH-EAST charity has launched an appeal to raise £45,000 to give a youngster with a serious genetic condition a rare disease a better future.

Nine-year-old Matthew Brettell from Thorney Close, Sunderland was diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy two years ago and his health is deteriorating at such a rapid rate that he is now virtually wheelchair-bound and has to be carried upstairs to bed and to use the bathroom.

The Sunderland-based Hope 4 Kidz is hoping to help the youngster and his family, with plans to raise the money needed to make a range of adaptations to their home.

Matthew shares a room with his brother Daniel, which is not large enough to accommodate his electric wheelchair and the medical equipment he will need going forward.

Viv Watts of Hope 4 Kidz said: “The family home needs a huge number of adaptations to it to accommodate Matthew’s needs.

“That is why we have launched Matthew’s Milestones, an appeal to raise the amount needed to make the house suitable for all the family.”

Work required includes a ramp at the front of the house and the widening and replacement of the doors along with the demolition of the garage and the creation of a two storey extension which would give Matthew his own bedroom and a bathroom suitable for his disabilities.

The aim is also to create a small wet room on the ground floor with an overhead tracking and hoist and a mini kitchen area which will double as medical storage.

The plans will also see the installation of a disabled lift platform and a small living area which would double as overnight accommodation for nursing staff.

Sunderland’s Fitz Architects has already offered their services and are drawing up the plans as well as overseeing the adaptations to the house.