BeachAbility, a local charity established in 2012, provided the Butterfield family with a Hippocampe beach wheelchair for free. Manufactured by VipaMat in France, this specialized wheelchair, priced at approximately $3,880, includes a headrest and harness to ensure individuals like Joey, who has cerebral palsy, can sit comfortably and securely.
Thanks to the off-road capabilities of the wheelchair, Joey experienced the beach for the first time, allowing him to play with his siblings, Connor and Maisie. Joey’s mother, Helen Butterfield, expressed gratitude to BeachAbility, emphasizing how the Hippocampe wheelchair made it possible for Joey to actively participate in family activities.
In a heartwarming video shared on Facebook, Joey laughed joyfully as waves rolled over him. Tom, Joey’s father, and Helen, his mother, were visibly delighted by their son’s genuine happiness.
Helen Butterfield extended her thanks to BeachAbility, expressing the profound joy she felt seeing Joey enjoy the beach for the first time. In her words, “I want to thank you guys from the whole of my heart for making my boy so happy! Seeing him laugh today has made our year. You are doing so much good, giving people the chance to experience the seaside. I could cry; I’m that happy. Joey loved every second—thank you so much.”
