The mum of a teenager with a muscle-weakening condition says he’s been given a new lease of life thanks to funds raised by firefighters and the local community. 

Draven Jefferies, who lives in Hawkinge, Folkestone, has Duchenne muscular dystrophy, which causes muscle loss and weakness, and affects mobility. 

The symptoms can make daily tasks hard to navigate, including getting out of bed or even playing a computer game – and being a keen gamer, this made life difficult for Draven. 

Wanting to help, crews at Folkestone fire station used some of the money raised through their annual Christmas appeal to purchase a new gaming chair for the 14-year-old, with the rest of the funds being donated to The Fire Fighters Charity. 

Draven’s mum, Jemma Godden, said: “Draven loves gaming but it’s more than just a hobby, it’s a chance for him to socialise with his friends and to be a character that can run, or do things he can’t physically do. 

“Having recently lost muscle strength in his legs, it’s hard for Draven to get out of bed but the chair gives him an incentive to do it and we can all sit with him as a family, which means so much to us. 

“I can’t change Draven’s condition or the outcome but as his mum, I try to do the best I can to make the day a bit better, and having the support of the firefighters, and all the people who donated, just makes it feel like I’m not alone. Their kindness and generosity are truly amazing.” 

Folkestone crews have previously raised funds to buy Draven a specialist mattress and plan to purchase a new travel hoist with a carry bag for the teen, which will enable him to move around his home more easily. 

Firefighter Farrell Cox said: “We’re so pleased to be able to support Draven and his family in whatever way we can, while also raising funds for The Fire Fighters Charity and the fantastic services they provide. 

“But it wouldn’t be possible without the generosity of people who donated to our Christmas appeal, so thank you to everyone who contributed. I know Jemma, Draven and their family are extremely grateful, as are we.”