A DISABLED man has issued an urgent plea after his hopes of “vital” home adaptations were thrown into jeopardy.
Steve Kennett, 57, was diagnosed with incurable Motor Neurone Disease in January which left him wheelchair-bound.
He lives in Ellesmere Port with his partner Byron Schofield, 38, who brought their wedding forward to last April after the devastating medical news.
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Since his diagnosis, Steve’s condition has deteriorated, and his increasing physical limitations mean adaptations to their house are essential.
A £30,000 Disabled Facilities Grant, which is the maximum, amount, has now been approved by the Cheshire West and Chester Council but the pair say this is “insufficient” to cover all the costs of the work.
Byron said: “We need an extension at the side of our home with a bedroom and level access shower.
“We have a stair lift but Steve can no longer access it and he sleeps in a chair in the living room during the day and his bed is in the dining room. He has to use a commode as he can’t get to the upstairs bathroom.”
Since the financial plea, Byron’s sister Elaine Schofield, has set up a fundraising page to help the couple.
Byron said: “Steve has been a hard working man all his life and he deserves to be treated with respect but without the proposed alterations he is not receiving the dignity due to him.”
“Quite frankly we are desperate and I have applied to the BBC’s ‘DIY SOS’ programme to see if it is a challenge Nick Knowles and his team will take on.”
The GoFundMe page has raised £650 out of its £40,000 goal for the accessible disabled extension.
Byron added: “The extension plans were fast-tracked and approved and we are very grateful for the help given us by the council especially as they approved the maximum amount.
“We may be able to access a discretionary grant from the council but we fear the total cost of the works could be about £70,000.
“We know it’s a big ask but if any companies or individuals feel able to help we would be forever in their debt.”
To donate to the GoFundMe page click here.
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