A new children’s book telling the story of a boy’s rare breathing condition has been hailed by Jacqueline Wilson as a “touching” story. Casper Oakley-Roberts, two, has the rare Congenital Central Hypoventilation Syndrome which means he stops breathing when he falls asleep. Now, a book inspired by his fight has been released to help raise funds to create a treatment for the condition.
Dreaming of Breathing – The Adventures of Casper and Beau was written about Casper, from Hove, and Beau Kent, another boy who suffers from the condition. Tracy Beaker author Jacqueline Wilson said the book was “a touching, inventively told story of two endearing little boys”, adding: “It’s beautifully produced with delightful illustrations, suitable for the smallest child and enlightening for the adult reader too.” The book was written by Abiella Berns, from Brighton , who cares for Casper, and was launched at The Book Nook in Hove on Friday.
Money from the book will help to fundraise for Keep Me Breathing, a charity set up by Casper’s parents James and Stephanie to eventually create a “breathing pacemaker” which would help to tackle the condition. Copies of the book can be bought from the charity’s website..
