By REBECCA BILLS
HE is a brave little man with a zest for life.
However, eight-year-old Oscar Groves-Berry, dubbed Oscar the Brave, was diagnosed with the incurable Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) the day before his seventh birthday.
The disease is the most aggressive form of Muscular Dystrophy causing muscles to break down, leading to progressive difficulty with walking and general mobility that will lead to complete muscle failure including his heart and lungs.
With his ninth birthday coming up on 24 April, the family has had to make a considerable number of changes including renovating their bathroom and re-doing their drive-way since the diagnosis.
Parents Vicki and Andrew said it was not easy, but they just did what they had to do as soon he was permanently bound to a wheelchair.
“When we were initially told of his condition, it was absolutely gut wrenching – it was awful,” Mrs Groves-Berry said.
“We’ve answered all his questions as he asks them as honestly as possible,” he said.
“Unfortunately, his appearance has changed so much because of the medication, some of his friends have asked questions.”
The disease affects one in 3500 boys, is genetic and has no cure.
The family is now in desperate need of a suitable vehicle with hydraulics to accommodate an electric wheelchair – this will play an essential part in enabling Oscar to attend medical appointments, the Children’s Hospital, weekly therapy, school and outings.
Wantirna Lions Club has got on board to support Oscar and his family and is currently seeking 300 generous people or organisations to donate $100 each to help fund the purchase of the vehicle.
Wantirna Lions Club Member Paul Garvey said the club was about serving and supporting the local community.
“This is a worthwhile cause that we felt we could get behind and possibly take a leading role for other service clubs, groups, businesses and individuals to work with us to support Oscar and his family,” he said.
“As we have gotten to know Oscar and his family, we appreciate how important this cause is and we understand how important getting this vehicle for them is.
“The family is really delightful, but really the underlying message here is we can make a difference together.”
Mr Groves-Berry said the support from not only the club but the whole local community has been unbelievable.
“It makes us feel very humble knowing that there are people out there that are willing to help us,” she said.
“It’s been hard on us all as a family, including our 11-year-old daughter Madison.
“We are normally the ones helping other people – we are very grateful as it makes our life just the little bit easier having that assistance.”
Tax deductable donations may be made to the Lions Clun ‘Oscar the Brave Public Fund – Vehicle Project’ by depositing to the project account: BSB 633 000 Account Number 151 578 317.
Alternatively, a cheque can be sent to Lions Club Wantirna, PO Box 5199, Studfield, 3152.
For more information on Oscar and his story, visit oscarthebrave.org.au.
