Beneath the cheeky smile, James Gilders has a deeper story to tell. He was born at 25 weeks, weighing less than 1kg. James spends much of his time in a wheelchair. He has cerebral palsy and is one of just 28 children in Victoria with a special medicine releasing pump implanted in his abdomen.

The pump releases a relaxant that reduces the spasticity in his muscles. His mother says the pump has made a big difference to James’ life.

Before the pump went in, James had trouble drinking from a cup or bottle. He would concentrate so hard on keeping his hand steady that it would shake and cause spillage. Now, he can drink without any problems.

The pump needs refilling every few weeks, which means a trip to the hospital from country Victoria.

Photo courtesy of the Herald Sun.