Ipswich man raises thousands for niece with Rett Syndrome

Daryl Peck has raised over £6,500 for Rett UK, a charity that has supported him and his niece Tiffany, who was diagnosed with Rett Syndrome in January this year.

Rett Syndrome is a rare genetic neurological and developmental disorder that affects the way the brain develops.

As such, Tiffany is largely non-verbal and has a loss of functional use of her hands, as well as slowed brain and head growth.

Tiffany, 5, has Rett Syndrome (Image: Daryl Peck)

Mr Peck, 31, said: "She makes me the proudest uncle.

"She's such a happy and smiley girl and puts smiles on all our faces.

"She is getting more confident now and is stronger in the legs, with help from Thomas Wolsey Ormiston Academy.

Tiffany with her uncle Daryl (Image: Daryl Peck)

"She loves school, she hates the weekend because she's not at school."

To raise money, Mr Peck will undertake an ultramarathon on October 14, taking part in the Endurance Suffolk Coastal Ultramarathon, a 32.6 mile run around the county.

He said: "Training is going well.

"I struggle with the healthy eating and things, but I will stay fit and ready."

Tiffany at her fifth birthday (Image: Daryl Peck)

He has also been running a raffle over the last few months, with businesses around the county offering prizes for Mr Peck to raffle off.

He said: "I have had around £10,000 worth of donations from companies, and it is mind-blowing how generous people have been."

So far, prizes have ranged from Ipswich Town tickets and replica kits to Newmarket Races tickets to different activities and experiences.

There is also potentially good news for Tiffany and the family, as the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved a new drug called Trofinetide which can be used on adults and children over the age of two.

To support Tiffany and Daryl, and to have a look at the raffle, click here.

Tiffany was diagnosed with Rett Syndrome in January this year (Image: Daryl Peck)