Reading Time: 3 minutes

Charlotte and her brother When Charlotte’s brother Alex was just two years old, he was initially diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy and then re-diagnosed at age six with a rare genetic condition, known as Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia, (HSP). HSP affects Alex’s gross and fine motor skills impacting his mobility due to a weakness and tightness (spasticity) in his legs.

As a result, movement has become increasingly difficult for Alex, and now at the age of 15, he requires a wheelchair, having recently undergone scoliosis surgery.

To help her parents with the added pressures of caring for Alex, Charlotte has always been more than willing to do whatever she can to help. “I don’t know how Over The Wall did it, but even though I wasn’t at camp, it felt just like camp was still happening.”

Charlotte Support through the years Charlotte, now 13, explains, “I try my hardest to support my parents with Alex. I also really enjoy caring for him. At the moment, he can’t stand up, which sometimes frustrates him.

I remember when he was at school, his friends would play football, and he would watch at the side lines, which I think he found hard. He is very positive though- he knows his life is difficult, but he doesn’t let that get in the way.” “I love making him laugh and smile.