Daniel Knights was diagnosed with ATR-X (Alpha-thalassemia X-linked intellectual disability) Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that effects at least 200 families worldwide. In addition, Daniel has Global Developmental Delay, a complex condition that causes delays in young peoples' learning and development.
Daniel wanted to volunteer so he could learn more skills, get a job in the future, and become more independent. That’s when his support coach suggested British Heart Foundation (BHF).
Daniel volunteers at the Bury St Edmunds BHF shop and manages the entertainment department, while learning how to use the tablet to price check and operate the tills. Since joining, he has developed customer service skills and grown in confidence.
Daniel also fundraises through bucket collections in the local area and has been a force to be reckoned with, raising roughly £4,000 so far as he goes into his third year. But he’s set his eyes on a new target!
“I am hoping to raise another £3,000 for this year, as now I am in Bury St Edmunds which is much busier especially on market days which is when I like to do my collections - I feel it is doable.”
“I just decided to give the charity a go as the charity I started with was different and I did not feel like I was being given a chance to learn new things as they did not feel I could do them due to my special needs so I left. With the BHF it has been different as they have supported me every step of the way and guided, motivated and inspired me to learn and develop.”
When Daniel isn’t fundraising or managing the department in the shop, he enjoys gaming, going to the gym, playing golf, and spending time with his family.
When asked if he would recommend volunteering, he says, “Yes, I would encourage everyone to volunteer, especially those who have special needs and learning disabilities like me as it helps give us confidence and grow our development.
“It has really helped my confidence, self-esteem and wellbeing. I feel like I am a new person and given me a new lease of life with all the confidence I have now. I feel like I have more to give and my future looks brighter.”
Store Manager, Alison Martin, proudly says, “It has been my upmost privilege to be part of Daniel’s journey. I have enjoyed every minute and so I feel incredibly lucky that he wanted to join me when I moved over to Bury St. Edmunds. I am looking forward to carrying on supporting him in his future achievements not just with the BHF but with his own self-developments. He really is a super star!”
Karen Squirrell, Area Manager, also agrees how well Daniel has flourished at the store with the amazing support from Alison, “Daniel has completely flourished being under Alison’s wing and I would like to recognise what a fantastic job Alison does in supporting anyone who needs additional help. Alison connects easily with them and ensures they are included and supported throughout their journey with the BHF.”
Thank you, Alison, and thank you Daniel for being so committed, and a fundraising inspiration to BHF. We can’t wait to see what your future holds.
