A YOUNG boy with a limb difference has not let his disability limit him as he has proudly become an ambassador for others living with similar conditions.
Tommy Dengel was born missing part of his right arm, including his hand and a section below the elbow.
While he now has an advanced myoelectric arm, which responds to muscle signals to function close to the real thing, life hasn’t always been easy for the youngster, and his struggles inspired family to found the LimbBo foundation to help other children in the same situation.
Years later and the charity continues to grow, hosting adventure days, teaming up with Barnsley FC and helping make life more accessible for those with limb differences.
And at the heart of it remains Tommy, who at 10 years old now acts as an ambassador for the foundation.
His grandma, Jane Hewitt, told the Chronicle: “Tommy’s grown up with the foundation and as it developed we realised that children sometimes don’t need to talk to adults about their problems, but peers with the same issues.
“We set up the position of youth advisor and Tommy’s been taking his role very seriously.
“It’s helped his confidence too - two or three years ago he was too nervous to go into a busy room and now goes into schools showing pupils how his arm works.
“He’s a real ambassador in that way.”
Tommy actively participates in LimbBo’s various activities and has taken part in a variety of fundraising activities including sponsored bike rides and walks.
He gives his all to these tasks and never slows down.
“He’s just a little boy but he comes out bucket collecting with us at Morrisons and gives up his Saturdays,” Jane added.
“Sometimes he gets on stage to do the raffle - it may seem like nothing but for him that’s such a big thing to do.
“I’m biased because I’m his grandma but he really is lovely.
“Role model is a term that’s becoming a bit overused, but he is one.”
Due to all his hard work, the young Outwood Primary Academy Littleworth Grange pupil has been put forward for this year’s Young Champions awards.
“I think he’ll be amazed by this.
“I’m so proud of him anyway and he deserves this recognition.
“But if you asked him he wouldn’t say he does, because he’s just doing what he thinks is right.”
