A decorator is taking on a 72-hole golf challenge to raise money for his eight-year-old nephew who has a rare genetic disorder.

Louie Callaghan, from Bexley, along with three friends, will undertake the fundraising challenge at Royal Blackheath Golf Club on June 21.

The 34-year-old is raising money for his nephew Albert Said, from Brentwood, who suffers from the rare genetic disorder Pitt Hopkins Syndrome, which leaves him unable to crawl, walk, or talk.

Louie said: "We’ll be starting at 4am, as soon as it gets light, and hope to have completed it by about 9pm.

Louie is starting his golf fundraising challenge at 4amLouie is starting his golf fundraising challenge at 4am (Image: Tree of Hope)

"Albert’s mum Carly is my sister and I’ve never done any fundraising for Albert before, so I wanted to do something to help."

Albert's condition means he depends on adults for all his daily needs, and has support from therapists and equipment to help him become as independent as possible.

Albert's mum and Louie's sister Carly, 37, said: "Albert will always need support from different therapists and rely on equipment to help him become as independent as possible.

"We have already met our initial goal at £10,000, thanks to the generosity of friends, family and our community."

She added: "Albert’s annual physio sessions alone cost £4,420 each year, and he often needs new equipment as he grows, so costs are ongoing.

The money raised will go towards Albert's equipment and therapy costs, to help him become more independentThe money raised will go towards Albert's equipment and therapy costs (Image: Tree of Hope)

"We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who has helped us with fundraising and of course would like to thank Louie and his friends for taking this on for Albert."

Albert’s family is receiving support from children’s charity Tree of Hope, which helps families in raising funds for children with healthcare needs that the NHS cannot meet.

They also provide charity status for fundraisers so they can benefit from gift aid and corporate support, which helps to reassure donors.

Tree of Hope chief executive Becky Andrew said: "We are delighted to be supporting the Said family with their fundraising and wish Louie and his friends all the best with the golf challenge."

To donate to Albert’s fund or sponsor Louie, visit https://www.treeofhope.org.uk/albert-said/ or https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/72-Hours-Golf-2024.