THE parents of a three-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare brain disorder have revealed plans to host a fundraising music concert to help their son have “life-changing” physiotherapy.

Deborah Gardner, 34, and husband Adam Gardner, 37, will be holding a gig at the Fisherman’s Chapel in their hometown of Leigh to raise money for disabled son, Arizona.

Arizona was born in Southend Hospital with several medical conditions, including Septo-Optic Dysplasia (SOD), which affects around one in 10,000 people.

The disorder means he cannot sit, crawl, stand or walk, and relies on his parents for everything.

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He has started targeted private physiotherapy to try and help him do the things many take for granted, including sitting-up unaided.

His mum Deborah said: “Arizona is an amazing, joyful, determined, little boy.

“Like any child, Arizona shows a clear desire to move about and have more independence.

"He gets easily frustrated when his body doesn’t comply.

“Sitting up on his own would give him a new perspective on the world and be life-changing for him.

“He could play more easily with his toys, sit, and engage with his friends at pre-school, and gain a bit of independence.

“It would also make a huge difference to us as his parents, as he is completely reliant on us for all movement.”

Along with SOD, Arizona has hypotonia which means he was low muscle tone.

He has 30 minutes of intensive therapy each week tailored to him to help him build the connection between his brain and his muscle, however, it costs more than £130 a week.

His family hope to raise cash for treatment by holding the music event in Leigh, which they have aptly called Arizona Rocks!

Deborah added: “There are five local acts playing for free, with a raffle that has donated prizes from businesses.

“Tickets are only £10, and half price for kids, and raffle tickets are £1 for two.

“15 per cent of the money earnt goes to Little Havens who have been supporting Arizona and us as family, they are angels on earth.

“The rest will go towards Arizona’s treatment.”

Tickets for the event, which will take place on August 27. can be bought at www.arizonarocks2022.com.