A 12-year-old has been spreading joy across Wimbledon by providing sensory products for vulnerable families and elderly residents in the community.
Mariam Ahmad, lives with autism, anxiety and chronic fatigue syndrome, and has set up a fundraiser whilst recovering from suspected coronavirus.
Inspired by her own struggles, Mariam has raised hundreds of pounds to help buy products from small businesses, to help those suffering from anxiety and loneliness during this time of uncertainty.
Mariam has raised over £900 in just 15 days and has spent some of the proceedings on story journals, activity kits, customised storybooks and sticker decorative kits.
The products aim to help children express emotions, to get creative, hand-eye coordination and strengthen motor skills.
Speaking to Sutton Guardian, Mariam said: "I am really happy to get these wonderful books, craft boxes, sticker kits and mood stars to people who will enjoy them for a very long time to come."
Mariam's mother, Zainab Ahmad, Founder of 'Awetisom Life', said: “We are delighted to be bringing carefully curated sensory books, toys and activities that will help kids and residents of care homes who struggle with autism, anxiety and chronic illness.
"These are going to make such a difference by giving them joyful engagement, helping build their motor strength and regulate their emotions and anxiety by being creative!
"The more help we get from generous people like you, the more joy we can bring to families just like ours, who need it the most."
Mariam and her mother are also running a #highfiveworld campaign - which asks people to send in drawings of their hands to share virtual high fives and messages of hope.
The 12-year-old is now supporting residents at Hazel Homes for Autism, Florence Avenue Care Home, Merton Mutual Aid, Dons Local Action Group and non-profit organisation, Caleidoscope.
Donations reached £927 out of the targeted £1000 at the time of publishing.
If you would like to donate, visit Mariam's Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/donate/1729158033874539/
For more information on the High Five World Campaign, visit @awetisome.life pages on Instagram and Facebook.
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