AN ALLOA couple have launched a fundraiser in order to buy their four-month-old daughter a specialised, corrective helmet.

Sean and Heather Rae hope to raise money to purchase a Timband for little Esme-Rose, treatment which is not currently available on the NHS.

The tot has been diagnosed with severe brachycephaly with left-side plagiocephaly, which is also known as 'flat head syndrome'.

Her parents have taken her for private treatment at Technology in Motion, who will provide the custom-fit piece of equipment that will gently push everything back into place.

Heather said: "Both myself and Esme's father, Sean, decided this was going to be the quickest way to raise funds as Esme needs the helmet fitted before her head shape changes any further. 

"Since the shape has changed so much already in the past four months, since her birth, but especially in the past few weeks, and because her brachycephaly and plagiocephaly is so severe, the specialists recommend within two weeks. 

"With four children to look after, and with bills etc to pay, there was no feasible way we would be able to come up with the funds in time – especially as I am currently on maternity leave."

The tot's helmet will be fitted on Tuesday, July 25, and Heather, 33, and Sean, 31, will have the eight week period following that to pay the associated costs.

The baseline amount they need to raise is £2025, with any additional funds helping travel costs and possibly a new car seat, to fit around the helmet Esme will need to wear for 23 hours a day.

Heather – who also wants to make people more aware of the issue – said they have had a great response to their campaign so far, with Alloa Round Table even offering to donate £730.

She added: "It is hugely important to all our family and friends.

"Everyone has helped out with the fundraising by sharing the crowdfunding link and by making donations. 

"It has really shown me how many people care about us. It has also highlighted that this condition is more common than I thought it to be. 

"Currently, Esme only sleeps on one side of her head and she also struggles to lift her head properly when sitting upright. 

"Visibly, one ear is much further forward on the side of her head than the other and I have been told that this may cause problems in the future, should she require glasses etc. 

"There are other issues that may occur down the line should Esme not be fitted with her helmet.

"Having this helmet will gently push everything back into place and Esme will be able to grow up potentially without any problems, which is all any mother wants for their child."

Heather also said any outstanding money will be donated to a charity called Headstart4Babies, which helps children with this condition.

To donate, visit the Just Giving page.