Liversedge mum launches campaign with charity to create new law against online trolls

The mum of a youngster from Liversedge living with cerebral palsy hasjoined forces with a charity to establish a new law tackling internet trolls.
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Zach Eagling was diagnosed with cerebral palsy when he was three, after suffering a brain injury at birth.

His condition means he has difficulties with his mobility and cognitive development, and he requires specialist care and equipment to enable him in his day-to-day life. He also lives with epilepsy.

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Sadly, throughout Zach’s challenge, internet trolls posted malicious tweets with flashing images on the Epilepsy Society’s social pages, with the intention of triggering seizures in those affected.

Zach Eagling was diagnosed with cerebral palsy when he was threeZach Eagling was diagnosed with cerebral palsy when he was three
Zach Eagling was diagnosed with cerebral palsy when he was three

The Epilespy Society is now campaigning for this type of behaviour to be criminalised under Zach’s Law as part of the Government’s Online Harms Bill

Zach is determined to “rise above” the abuse.

His mum Claire Keer said: “Zach’s cerebral palsy diagnosis was such a shock at first, and I was absolutely devastated to learn that he would face so many difficulties as a result.

“However, he has gone above and beyond what anyone ever expected. He is such a bubbly and happy boy, and doesn’t let his speech problems stop him from communicating, in particular when we were having issues with the trolls. Zach was deeply upset by it, but he was determined to rise above it and not let them win. We are so pleased to be a part of Zach’s

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Law so we can help put an end to the abuse and stop anyone else from going through this.

“More recently, Zach has made a remarkable return to school. Recently, he has been using technology packages to assist with his school work, in particular Maths which he is really good at but is hampered by his struggles with writing. The technology helps him keep up with his classmates.”

Since his diagnosis, specialist medical negligence lawyers at Irwin Mitchell have helped him and his family, access specialist therapies and support they require to help Zach live life as best he can. As he gets older, he will also be supported by the firm’s Court of Protection team.

Rachelle Mahapatra, the specialist medical negligence lawyer at Irwin Mitchell representing Zach and his family, said: “Zach’s cheery and positive attitude never ceases to amaze me.

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“He inspired so many people with his fund-raising walk during lockdown and the money he raised was incredible. He returned to school and while he has physical difficulties, he is bright and eager to learn.

Zach was born at full term following an uncomplicated pregnancy.

He was pale and floppy and required resuscitation.

However, there were problems intubating Zach and it took around 10 minutes before he was ventilated.

He was then transferred to the neonatal intensive care unit and ventilated for two days.

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Zach was three-years-old when he was diagnosed with cerebral palsy.

He regularly sees a speech and language therapist and occupational therapist, as well as a physiotherapist to help with his mobility.

Earlier this year, he started walking independently without the use of his frame.

In June, he successfully completed 130 laps of his garden as part of the 2.6 Challenge, a nationwide fundraising event held this year in place of the London Marathon. He finished the laps on his ninth birthday and raised more than £11,500 for the Epilepsy Society, citing Captain Tom Moore as his inspiration.