Sister Pledge: Mother of Chailey Heritage School pupil recognised as one of Sussex’s Inspirational Women

Charlotte Moore and Vicki Harper

Sussex mothers, Vicki Harper and Charlotte Moore, were recognised at the prestigious Sussex Women of the Year Lunch held at the American Express Community Stadium this week.

Vicki’s son Sam, aged 8 and a pupil at Chailey Heritage School, has a rare genetic disorder CDKL-5, which affects only 300 boys globally. As part of his condition, he has severe epilepsy and needs one-to-one care at all times. Vicki spoke at the lunch, that aims to honour and share achievements of women across Sussex, about family life with Sam, her husband Alec and other two children, and about what a difference Chailey Heritage has made to their lives. Charlotte also spoke movingly about living with her two autistic sons who are now in their 20s.

“Chailey Heritage is integral to our lives and Sam’s wellbeing,” says Vicki. “The professionals that work there are dedicated to providing Sam with the best care and therapy for his complex needs. He has already built up great core strength through horse riding sessions and hydrotherapy and is learning to use the Eyegaze technology which allows him to track his eye movements to communicate and play games. It is an amazing place with some fantastic facilities and with a team of people who are committed to making sure that every young person reaches their full potential.”

It is an amazing place with some fantastic facilities and a team of people who are committed

Sally-Anne Murray, Development Director of Chailey Heritage Foundation comments: “It’s great to be supported by this amazing event and to hear Vicki talk so eloquently and passionately about hers and Sam’s family life. At Chailey Heritage we rely heavily on the generosity of people at events like this one to generate funds to build facilities for the children and young adults. The money donated from the event will go towards our D.R.E.A.M (dynamic, real, experiential, amazing, magical) Centre campaign to create a modern, purpose built space, large enough for children and young people with complex disabilities to take part in a mixture of arts and physical activities.”

Maureen Chowen, High Sheriff of East Sussex, who also spoke at the lunch, said “It has been a super afternoon meeting old friends, colleagues and new ladies from all around Sussex who have made contributions to the county. Today has been an opportunity to bring everyone together at the same time and to support Chailey Heritage Foundation, a well-deserved local charity, which, as Vicki told us, makes such a difference to the lives of young people with complex needs.”

The annual lunch aims to recognise women’s extraordinary achievements and contributions to Sussex and this year’s lunch supports Chailey Heritage Foundation. To find out more or to donate, please visit www.chf.org.uk/dreamcentre or contact Sally-Anne Murray, Development Director on 01825 724752