CLAMOURING to explore the world around him, little Callum Rhodes is keen to exert his independence from an early age.

And his mum and dad, Simon and Claire Rhodes from Winkton in Christchurch, are eager to see their toddler take his first steps. But Callum needs constant supervision because of his complex health needs.

The two-year-old has Cerebral Palsy and West Syndrome, which means he is unable to walk unaided and is prone to seizures.

Although he has no recognisable speech, he uses different sounds to indicate his feelings.

Claire said: “He likes to try and walk everywhere but I have to hold onto him and support him because he doesn’t have the necessary muscle tone.

“When he sees a toy or person, he wants to play with he whizzes off my lap but then finds he can’t get where he wants to go.”

She added: “Looking ahead, there is a chance that the stronger his muscles get now, the less he will have to use a wheelchair in the future.

“Improved muscle tone could help long-term complications in his limbs.

“He is constantly amazing us with his progress and I want to give him every opportunity for a taste of independence.”

A walker would allow Callum to interact more fully with other children at the First Opportunities School nursery in New Milton, which he attends twice a week.

The one that would best suit his needs costs £1,306, so Claire has turned to leading UK children’s disability charity Newlife Foundation for help. The family has pledged a donation of £300.

Newlife CEO Sheila Brown, OBE, said: “Because of the huge demand, we are calling on ‘local heroes’ to help us raise money to fund equipment.

“Newlife guarantees that 100 per cent of any gift or donation will go directly to help disabled children in Dorset.”

She said that any money raised surplus to requirements for Callum will help support other disabled and terminally ill children in Dorset.

The charity is currently working with five families in the county with equipment needs totalling £9,011. Call the fundraising team on 0800 988 4640