Ella Meacham, a 13-year-old girl from Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire, who has complex neurological conditions and relies on a wheelchair and mobility aids, now has a safe place to play outdoors, thanks to the generosity of local Freemasons.
The Meacham family recently had their house internally adapted to make it safer for Ella. However, the concrete garden remained a concern, as it was not a safe environment for her to enjoy the outdoors.
Upon learning about the family's situation, John Benbow, a member of Cambrian Lodge, stepped in to help. Simply Landscaping of Pembroke Dock had provided a quote of £1,500 to lay a soft play area in the garden. The Cambrian Lodge members offered to cover half of the cost, while the remaining funds were provided by the Dyfed Mark Masons, following John's request to provincial grand master, Gary Hicks.
The successful installation of the soft play area has now enabled Ella to safely enjoy playing outside. Her mother, Emma, expressed her gratitude, stating, "It enhances Ella's life and well-being. She just loves being outside."
Steve Thurgood, Dyfed Mark provincial charity steward, added, "We were pleased to collaborate with Cambrian Lodge and provide Ella with this safe area for her to play outside without her Mum having to worry about her injuring herself."
The collaboration between Cambrian Lodge and Dyfed Mark Masons has made a significant difference in the life of a young girl with complex needs, allowing her to enjoy the simple pleasure of playing outdoors safely.