Mum auctions wedding dress to raise funds for autism charity who supported son

A bride is auctioning her beloved wedding dress to raise funds for a charity that supported her son, who has autism.
Kelly RobertsKelly Roberts
Kelly Roberts

Recently married Kelly Roberts has pledged to support Caudwell Children, the national charity that provides practical and emotional support to disabled children and their families, after it gave fundraising support to her eight-year-old son, Alexander.

Kelly - a mother-of-three from Crumlin in Co Antrim - said her son was referred for an assessment for autism, at the end of 2015.

“The lady who assessed Alexander told me how sensory equipment often has a calming effect on children with sensory conditions,” said Kelly.

AlexanderAlexander
Alexander

“When she told me that Caudwell Children could provide fundraising support to secure a light sensory pack, which would normally cost over £1,300, I made a note of their name and finally got in touch with them at the end of last year.”

The charity agreed to provide the funding needed to allow Kelly, and her husband Jordan, to buy the pack and after receiving the specialist kit Kelly was determined to give something back.

As she explained: “It’s absolutely fantastic! The pack includes a bubble tube, acrylic mirrors, an LED light source, a projector and a bubble fish tube.

“Alexander struggles with his emotions but the kit has really helped to calm him down when he’s been anxious or frustrated.

AlexanderAlexander
Alexander

“Unfortunately, with the cost of the wedding, which only took place on 14th January, 2017, we’re not in a position to give money. However, it suddenly occurred to me that I could raise some cash by auctioning my dress on eBay.”

Kelly, a Personal Assistant for a Health and Social Care Trust, says that the whole family are behind her fundraising auction. “They love it,” concluded Kelly. “They think it’s a great idea and they want to see some good come out of the sale of the dress.”

For more information on Caudwell Children visit: www.caudwellchildren.com

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