Mum turns to crowdfunding site to raise money for care of autistic son

A mother has resorted to a crowdfunding website to raise money to provide medical treatment for her autistic son, after a two-year wait for an MRI scan described as “urgent” by a doctor.

Karen Laughton, originally from Skibbereen but now living in Rossmore near Clonakilty, launched the fundraising campaign for her 12-year-old son Erin, as she fears his health and education is suffering.

In addition to being autistic, Erin has epilepsy and has been diagnosed with XYY Syndrome, a rare chromosome disorder which is associated with an increased risk of learning disabilities and delayed speech and language skills, as well as motor skills problems and weak muscle tone.