A Caerphilly playgroup helped raise awareness of a rare illness by celebrating Say Hello for Williams Syndrome Day on May 15.
Bambinos playgroup, which meets every Friday at the Twyn Community Centre in Caerphilly, held a fun day in honour of 20- month-old Harrison Evans, who was diagnosed with Williams Syndrome just before his first birthday.
Harri’s mum, Sarah Bennett-Evans, explained the condition affects one in 20,000 people and can cause learning development problems, intolerant hearing and skin sensitivity, as well as other symptoms.
Mrs Bennett Evans, from Newbridge, said: “People with Williams Syndrome are wonderfully friendly but sometimes this is frowned upon.
“We’re aiming to change the conversation from ‘William’s Syndrome people are too friendly’ to ‘the world they live in isn’t friendly enough’.
“Since attending Bambinos, Harri has progressed dramatically, impressing all the professionals involved in his care.
“Bambinos has been a godsend to not only Harri but also to myself, offering us support and encouragement and never with prejudice against Harri’s condition.
“The more money for the Williams Syndrome Foundation and awareness we raise, the easier for us because we struggle to find professionals who have come across it before.”
Bambinos was set up by Rachael Humphries to offer a space for babies and parents to come together and meet new people.
She said: “The group is donation only and all proceeds go back into Bambinos.
“Sarah’s going through a lot and we have supported her here. We want to give the children what they deserve as babies and help them grow to be confident little people.”
For more information visit www.williams-syndrome.org.uk.