Jamie Carragher’s 23 Foundation is seeking support in raising funds for a three-year-old boy who is suffering from a rare brain disease, which currently has no known cure.
The 23 Foundation has issued an appeal for donations to help pay for special needs, sensory toys and physiotherapy for James Toohey, who is suffering from Late Infantile Batten Disease, a neurodegenerative illness of which loss of sight is among the initial symptoms.
Carragher’s charity is also hoping any money generated can assist plans to send James on the holiday of a lifetime come to fruition, in addition to supporting the Batten Disease Family Association, which funds research and supports families affected by the disease.
Mike Lepic, Director of the 23 Foundation, told JMU Journalism: “Natalie Phillips, James’ auntie, contacted us last month. Subsequently, we met in Liverpool to discuss how we can raise funds to help James.
“The 23 Foundation and Liverpool FC have already donated some signed memorabilia. The funds will help James’ family while they are in London during his stay at the Great Ormond Street Hospital.
“We are hoping and praying for positive news and also trying to find funds to maybe send James to see Mickey Mouse.
“The support has been very encouraging and we are still in the early stages, however the family are having a fundraising event next month which will boost their funds.”
The toddler will undergo a clinical trial at Great Ormond Street next month, which will last for a year.
Carragher, who made over 700 appearances for the Reds, has personally donated a number of signed items from the 23 Foundation, while a shirt autographed by the Liverpool FC first-team squad has also been contributed.
Donations can be made by following the link to James’ JustGiving page, with the link also on Liverpool FC’s official website, or through emailing the 23 Foundation via [email protected].