More than 70 supporters of little Caitlin Peck have raised £400 at a special entertainment evening to help the youngster's fight to communicate.
The four-year-old was diagnosed in May with Angelman Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder which causes irregularities in the body's chromosomes.
It means those afflicted with the condition are unlikely to ever speak. However, doctors have told Caitlin's parents, Selina and Graham that there is hope.
Dolphin treatment in Florida and a special image-storing machine could help the youngster.
The Dynovox machine will allow Caitlin's parents to scan in pictures of their faces and other objects using a digital camera, which the youngster could then use to show when she wanted something.
The couple set up an appeal to raise funds for Caitlin and friends have responded with great generosity.
Mrs Peck said: "We have to give Caitlin whatever has the greatest potential to help her communicate."
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