Young boy with growth disorder walks 100km to thank supportive charity

They took part in a 100km walk for the Child Growth Foundation. Photo: Kieran Carr (Image: Kieran Carr)

Eight-year-old Mckenzie Carr, from North Earlham in Norwich has a clinical diagnosis of Silver-Russell Syndrome - a growth disorder meaning he is short of stature, has low muscle tone and struggles to put weight on.

He is a member of the Child Growth Foundation (CGF) which is a national charity supporting children, adults and their families affected by growth problems.

Mckenzie took part in a 100km walk along two popular Norfolk routes with his dad and two other family members, Matthew Carr and Logan Carr to raise as much money as possible for the CGF.

Mckenzie's dad Kieran Carr had always wanted to walk the routes and wanted to raise the money for the CGF because of all the help they had given the family.

Mckenzie Carr on the walk. Photo: Kieran Carr (Image: Kieran Carr)

So far £1,055.85 has been raised.

They started the walk on Monday, April 2 by walking from Knettishall Heath in Thetford along the Peddars Way footpath. They then walked up to Hunstanton to start the North Norfolk Coastal Path where they finished at Hopton-on-Sea on Saturday, April 8.

Mckenzie said: 'My favourite part of the walk was the first day when we reached the campsite because I was really tired and wet.'

He is an average height of a six-year-old and the weight of a five-year old.

Walk for the Child Growth Foundation. Photo: Kieran Carr (Image: Kieran Carr)

Carla-Jane Carr, Mckenzie's mum, said: 'Being a member of the CGF has meant that Mckenzie has been able to meet children with the same growth condition. He is able to accept who he is and that he isn't alone.

'A massive well done to Kieran, Mckenzie, Matt and Logan, you did so well and proud that you have raised so much for the CGF. I would like to thank everyone who is sponsoring these guys.'

Jenny Child, membership and parent support manager for the CGF, said: 'The Carr family have been a great support to the CGF, raising thousands of pounds for us over the last few years.

'The recent challenge was a great achievement for Mckenzie who has Silver-Russell Syndrome. It is down to the generosity of our supporters that helps us continue our work, supporting families and raising awareness of growth problems.'

The end of the walk. Photo: Kieran Carr (Image: Kieran Carr)

For more information or support, visit www.childgrowthfoundation.org.

Kieran carrying Mckenzie. Photo: Kieran Carr (Image: Kieran Carr)