Doting mum sets up a group for stars...

Photo: Anthony Miller

THE support group set up by Moira, pictured second left, and the other mums, dads and supporters.

Oldham’s first Down’s Syndrome support group has been set up by a doting mum from Saddleworth after her “shining star” son inspired her to help others.

Moira Fields, of Delph, was shocked when her son Isaac was diagnosed with Down’s Syndrome at birth.

She was then put through the agony of seeing him transferred to seven hospitals in the first fortnight of his life after he was thought to be suffering from a severe heart condition.

Moira said: “Having a baby with Down’s Syndrome is a very isolating experience, the medical model you are given is very negative and I didn’t have anyone to turn to who understood how I felt.”

Three years on and despite being almost totally deaf, little Isaac has blossomed into a happy, energetic youngster.

Moira said: “Isaac has since taken us on a journey of joy, amazement and truly is my shining star.”

The mum-of-three, whose other children do not share the condition, also had to deal with now-husband Michael on dialysis awaiting a kidney transplant at the same time. Moira has now set up the voluntary group, DS West Pennine, which meets once a month in Chadderton, to fill the information void she experienced having to travel to Manchester and Bury to similar support meetings.

She said: “Until you come to terms with it one thing you want is hope, and when you meet other parents that are positive about their child and what they have brought to their lives you can’t help but feel that hope.”

The group meets for advice, support and playtime at Stanley Road Children’s Centre, Chadderton on the last Friday of each month from 1-4pm. For information call Moira on 07842 534 819.