A DJ working for Buzz Asia Radio based in Bridge Road, Southall is running in the London Marathon to help buy a new wheelchair for a young boy.

Amit Sodha has been working with disabled children for many years. He recently met Jamie at PACE, a physical activities club, in Southall. He was so touched by his bubbly nature that he decided to do something to help.

Jamie is a fun loving 7 year old boy who has a condition known as Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA). He lives at home with his mum, dad and 3 year old brother Alex.

SMA is a neuromuscular disorder that means that Jamie cannot stand or walk, and is unable to sit unaided. His arm and neck strength is very limited, and he has difficulty reaching for objects that are beyond the range of his lower arms. This leaves him very dependent upon his family and other carers at all times.

However, his fine motor control is good and he has been very lucky to have a fantastic powered wheelchair since the age of two which gives him his only real, meaningful physical independence. With his chair, he can get around by himself, play with his friends, and take part in the sort of activities 7 year olds enjoy. He attends his local mainstream school, and drives the 15 minutes there and back every day in his chair.

He has recently started coming to the PACE club in Southall, and enjoys the fun and games there that he wouldn't be able to take part in without his chair.

Jamie is of course growing up, and the chair that has served him so well for 5 years is now getting too small.

Unfortunately these specialist chairs don't come cheap - the cost for a suitable replacement is nearly £18,000. Jamie's family is seeking funding from a number of charities to help with this cause.

Anything that Amit can raise by running for Jamie is going to be put to a very good cause.

With a few days to go before the marathon, Mr Sodha has raised more than £3,299.

To contribute to the appeal, visit www.justgiving.com/Amit-Sodha0