Bury St Edmunds deafblind boy, Sonny, in BBC programme

Seven-year-old Sonny, who lives with his parents Julie and Dan in Bury St Edmunds, will appear in the BBC Lifeline appeal which will showcase the support Sense gives to children with complex needs and their families.

Fronted by EastEnders' actress and Strictly Come Dancing star Kellie Bright, the appeal will feature three children that Sense supports and will launch on Easter Sunday. 

Seven-year-old Sonny, of Bury St Edmunds (Image: Sense)

Bright said: “I’m honoured to be supporting this appeal for Sense, a charity that believes no one, no matter their disability, should be left out of life. 

“Sense was founded 70 years ago by two mothers who both had children who were deafblind.

"They were committed to breaking down the barriers that stopped children being able to communicate and experience the world.

"Continuing that mission today, Sense now also supports people living with a range of other complex disabilities."

She added: "With your help and support, Sense can continue their life-changing work."

Kellie Bright, who will front the programme (Image: Sense)

Sonny, who spent the first year of his life in hospital, is described by his parents as 'cheeky, inquisitive and funny'.

In his early years, Julie and Dan worried their son may never be able to express himself and Julie said: "You brace yourself for lovely milestones, such as hearing your child say ‘mama’ or ‘dad’ for the first time. Then, all of a sudden, you’re told ‘no, that’s not how it’s going to be.'" 

Sense staff, including senior multi-sensory impairment practitioner Diane, helped Julie and Dan to support Sonny to learn symbol-based communication.

Sonny with his mum and Sense support worker during filming for the appeal (Image: Sense)

The family now display symbols for Sonny in prominent positions in their house, with pictures and text representing things like food, toys, and storybooks, that Sonny can take to his parents to express himself. 

Julie said: “Our world would have been very different without Sense. They’re like extended family.” 

The BBC Lifeline appeal will be broadcast at 2.05pm on Easter Sunday on BBC One, and then repeated on 12.50pm on Friday April 5 on BBC Two.