A COLCHESTER man is taking on a ‘Bushtucker Trial’ next month to help raise funds for a girl with a rare genetic condition.
Jay Bremner, 32, who works as a self-employed safety netter, will take on the challenge at The Grapes pub on September 2.
Grace Beverton, five, from Copford, started having seizures in 2018 when she was aged five-and-a-half months.
Following hospital tests, she was diagnosed with a mutation of the gene RHOBTB2 (x.1448G>A) following consultation with a genetics specialist at Great Ormond Street Hospital.
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Grace’s family and supporters fundraise for therapies and equipment which are not available on the NHS.
To date, they have raised almost £60,000.
Jay hopes to add to that total with his unusual challenge.
He said: “The pub staff is keeping quiet exactly what we’re going to be eating but I’m imagining things like innards and eyeballs.
“I’m not too worried about that, but if we also get into handling bugs or similar that might be more tricky.”
Grace cannot walk or talk, and as there are so few cases like Grace’s it is difficult to know how she will develop.
The current aim is to fund specialised and intensive physiotherapy sessions to help Grace sit unaided.
Longer term goals might include milestones such as bearing weight on her legs or even standing and walking.
There is also likely to be specialised equipment needed, as well as possible adaptations to the family home.
Grace’s dad Dale, 34, a police officer, said: "Grace and all the family are so grateful to Jay for doing his upcoming bush-tucker trial.
“Jay and his family have been supporting Grace for a very long time and we know they do so much for us and Grace.
“We feel so lucky to have them in Grace’s ‘pride’ - she is known as our little lioness as she is such a fighter. Also a massive thank you to the Grapes Pub for hosting this incredible and unique event.”
Children’s charity Tree of Hope is supporting Grace’s family.
Tree of Hope CEO Gill Gibb said: “We’re really pleased to hear that Grace’s family has so much ongoing support from their friends, family and community and wish Jay all the best with his unusual challenge.”
To sponsor Jay or to donate to Grace’s fund, visit https://www.treeofhope.org.uk/grace-beverton or https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/jaystrial
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