A family are braving the icy waters to fund home adaptations for their disabled son.
Zach Masterson, aged 8, was diagnosed with Duchene Muscular Dystrophy, a muscle wasting disease, as a toddler. His mobility has worsened significantly in the past six months and he is now almost fully reliant on a wheelchair.
Zach's parents Derek and Jacquie need to create a downstairs bedroom and make their hallway wheelchair accessible. The couple have been saving for the past few years but the renovations will cost upwards of €50,000.
The family have subsequently launched a fundraiser to help with the financial burden. Zach's father Derek, a former competitive swimmer, will undertake a 15km plunge around the Dublin coast this September.
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Jacquie told Dublin Live: "We wanted to do something ourselves rather than just accept the money. We're at a point now where Zach understands what's going on and that we need to get the house adapted for him."
Jacquie explained the family avoided telling Zach and his older brother Fionn about his condition until last summer. Both Derek and Jacquie wanted him to enjoy his childhood without worrying about his illness for as long as possible.
She added: "He eventually started noticing differences and that he couldn't do the same things as his classmates. When we told him he'd eventually need a wheelchair, he was adamant at first that it wouldn't happen."
The charity swim is scheduled for September 2, weather permitting. Derek will be accompanied in the water by his sister and 13 other determined volunteers.
Jacquie said the family are eternally grateful to the people who agreed to complete the lengthy swim. Fionn's GAA and soccer club have also provided huge support to the fundraiser.
The donations page will remain open until building commences on the Mastersons' home this winter. You can donate to the fundraiser through the official website.
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