AN INSPIRATIONAL borough youngster is the star of a new photography exhibition to help raise vital funds for Birmingham Children’s Hospital.
Rachel Baumber was diagnosed with Achondroplasia when she was just seven months old – a bone growth disorder that causes disproportionately short stature, arms, legs and fingers.
The 11-year-old has starred in hospital’s new photography exhibition which is attempting to help raise £3.65million to help fund the UK’s first Rare Diseases Centre for children.
Titled Stars of Steelhouse Lane, the exhibition features 11 brave patients – including Rachel – and will be in Victoria Square until the end of September.
With donations already eclipsing £1.5million, Rachel is determined to help boost the fundraising figure further and said she’s not going to let her condition get in her way.
She added: “I hate the staring – everywhere I go, people look at me and call me names.
“The bullies try to make me feel sad, but I don’t let them win.
“I’m proud of who I am and I’ll never let my condition get in my way.
“When I get lonely I talk to my big brother, he’s my best friend, my protector and always makes me feel better.
“He even likes my baking and thinks one day I could make it onto Great British Bake Off.”
Should the hospital’s £3.65million target be reached, the Star Appeal will change the lives of thousands of patients living with a rare or undiagnosed condition.
The centre will improve diagnosis, ensure patients are at the forefront of medical advances and prevent families from feeling isolated or alone.
To make a donation, visit www.bch.org.uk/stars or text RARE to 70020 to donate £3.
