A little girl suffering from a genetic disorder is to see a special performance of a West End show.

Jennifer Tyler, four, was born with Tuberous Sclerosis Complex, an illness which produces tumours in the major organs of the body including the brain. It can lead to epilepsy, mental handicap and autism.

The disorder is incurable and although Jennifer only suffers from the illness in a mild form, she still has to take a daily cocktail of drugs to keep it under control.

To mark the 21st anniversary of the association which helps children with the disease, Jennifer has been invited to a special performance of Dr Dolittle with Phillip Schofield.

Jennifer's mother Bobbie Tyler, 38, of The Avenue, Witham, said: "It will be fantastic meeting Phillip Schofield and Jennifer will be delighted to see the show as she adores animals.

"I am worried she will try and join in with them !"

Jennifer was diagnosed in 1995 and has to go to Great Ormond Street Hospital for check-ups along with visits to hospital in Chelmsford and a clinic in Cambridge.

Mrs Tyler said: "Jennifer is a lovely little girl but it can be quite a struggle.

"My husband, who is a research associate, has to use up all his holiday just to take us there. I had to give up my job to take care of Jennifer as we could not find a childminder.

"I also had to give up the idea of having more children even though I had planned on a large family."

The problems arising from Jennifer's condition have magnified Mrs Tyler's sense of isolation. She said: "People are all ready to give help to sufferers of well-known illnesses but unfortunately they do not know what TSC is about. I had to fight to get any assistance at all.

"Some friends with children have even backed off because Jennifer can be quite physical and hyperactive sometimes although she does not mean to hurt anyone."

Such problems will always be part of the Tylers' life and so groups which offer positive and practical support such as the Tuberous Sclerosis Association are invaluable.

Mrs Tyler said: "The association is always just a 'phone call away. It also puts you in contact with other families with children like Jennifer and we can help each just by talking through our problems."

The association is seeking to combat the disease by funding medical research programmes.

To meet the costs of these aims, the association will be launching a £5 million appeal at the Apollo Theatre in London before the show.

To find out more about Tuberous Sclerosis Complex call the association on 01527 871898.

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