After watching the pop singer take part in a charity version of Noel Edmonds’ popular game show Deal or No Deal, the family decided to find out more about what the Brainwave charity could offer.

Helston-based mum Maria Bury said: “Phoebe was born early at 29 weeks and weighing just 1lb 14oz – she was no bigger than a bag of sugar.

“At first she appeared to do really well but after four weeks she developed two infections that led to brain damage.

“There didn’t really seem to be a lot that the health authorities could do for her and it was thanks to a popular TV programme, “Deal or No Deal” which featured Olly Murs trying to win money for his charity Brainwave that we became aware of the charity.”

Brainwave works with families to deliver individual, home-based therapy and exercises for children with disabilities and ‘Development Delay’ to help them reach their full potential. This can be anything from walking to feeding themselves.

By working with parents, giving them relevant therapy equipment and teaching them correct handling skills, they are empowered to actively participate in their child’s development.

The family took Phoebe to the Brainwave Centre in Somerset where she had a two-day assessment and the family were given a programme of exercises to carry out with Phoebe at home.

Maria said: “It was really good to have two dedicated days during which the team at Brainwave looked at Phoebe as a whole instead of just looking at parts of her. They explained everything to us and they concentrated on what she can do rather than what she can’t. We learned more about her condition than ever before.”

Phoebe has been back to Brainwave twice and is making good progress.

“She is coming along really well,” said Maria. “She is now able to kneel on all fours plus her standing is improving. Also her communication has come on really well and she is starting to sign.”

Maria is so impressed with Brainwave that she is running her own fundraising initiative, a Vegas Night on July 27 at the Goldophin Club Helston. Tickets will be available from the Club (Tel: 01326 573282) and Helston Day Nursery at just £10.

Brainwave has three centres including the South West Centre in Bridgwater, and two further Centres in Birchwood, Cheshire and in Witham, Essex as well as satellite clinics in Ireland and Scotland so that families can access Brainwave wherever they are based in the UK.

Places on the programme are available for children at all three centres. For more information see www.brainwave.org.uk ; email: enquiries@brainwave.org.uk or phone: 01278 429089.