Help little Rebecca live a pain-free life

The plucky five-year-old suffers from ichthyosis, which causes skin to crack, break, tear and peel off in large pieces, leaving the flesh below vulnerable to infection.

It can be so painful she is sometimes unable to walk and has to miss school.

Her mum, Melanie, who also has the condition, said: “Rebecca’s treatment consists of regular bathing (twice a day, more if needed), followed by application of topical creams as often as she needs them.

“Her skin lacks vital moisture and elasticity, and so is constantly overly dry and cracks, splits and breaks.

“The type of ichthyosis Rebecca has also means that her skin blisters frequently, which causes a lot of pain and makes mobility difficult.

Her family are now fundraising to buy a Microsilk bath, which costs around £10,000, and can help significantly reduce her pain.

Melanie, of Buttercup Close, Atherton, added: “Rebecca’s bathing routine lasts anything between 90 minutes to two hours, so having a Microsilk bath will mean her bathing time will be reduced to just between 20 to 45 minutes.

“The bath has jets of water, which is so concentrated it helps the skin.

“Other families have been trying them and the results are fantastic.

“Rebecca takes everything in her stride. She rarely complains and is very confident and outgoing.

“She lets us know when she is struggling as there are times she gets infections.

“She is doing well Chowbent Primary School, in Atherton, and has lots of friends. She is looking forward to her class assembly, as she has lines to say.”

Rebecca’s fund-raising is supported by Atherton singer, former X factor singer Laura White.

Melanie added: “Rebecca is a big fan of Laura and she has been very supportive. We can’t thank her enough for her help.”

In a bid to raise extra funds a charity event will be held at The Botanical Gardens, in Tyldesley Road, on June 25. Tickets are £5 for adults and £2.50 for children. For more information and tickets call Melanie on 07530795193 or Vicky on 07545985088 or The Botanical Gardens on 01942 883884.

To make a donation, visit www.crowdfunding.justgiving.com/melanie-bradley