ACCRINGTON Stanley groundsman Martyn Cook has joined millions of men taking part in Movember, but not for the reason you might think.

Martyn has pledged to grow his moustache this month to raise money for a vital cause closer to home - helping two boys with a rare genetic condition from Rawtenstall.

MORE TOP STORIES:

Lewis Greenwood, three, and brother Max, two, have been diagnosed with Cohen Syndrome, which affects less than 1,000 people worldwide.

The life-long condition causes developmental delay and learning difficulties, and mobility and vision difficulties.

Their parents, Donna and Luke Greenwood, are building a therapy unit at the family home and any money their friend Martyn - best known as Buzzer - raises will go towards helping with the costs, as well as special toys for the boys.

Donna, 35, said: “Both our boys are non-verbal but Lewis has learned basic sign language so he can communicate with us for needs such as a drink and food.

“Both have low muscle tone and over flexible joints which make it difficult for them to crawl and walk and they attend a therapy nursery twice a week so they can have their physiotherapy and occupational therapy.

Lancashire Telegraph:

“Recently Lewis has just learned to take some unaided steps and Max has learned to crawl too. They are so determined to do the same as Max's twin sister, Eva, who does not have the condition. She often rallies them along.

“Max and Lewis are so affectionate and loving that they bring us all such joy. They are loved by everyone who knows them and always have a ready smile for everyone they meet.”

Other symptoms of Cohen Syndrome is retinal dystrophy - Lewis has already been diagnosed with this and, in May this year, he was registered blind.

Donna added: "We are trying to make a therapy room for them to play in a safe place as, due to their mobility and sight problems, it isn't safe to have furniture and obstacles.

“Because of their conditions and having autistic traits, they are sensitive to certain noises and textures so we will be looking at getting specialist sensory toys, books and equipment for their needs and to help with their development at home.

“We cannot thank Martyn enough for helping us to provide these for our children and to bring more awareness to Cohen Syndrome as children and adults are being misdiagnosed and undiagnosed due to the rarity of the condition.

"Both our boys will continue to surpass all expectations of them and we are so proud to be their parents.”

Father-of-two Martyn, who lives in Accrington, said: “I have children myself and it’s heartbreaking to see what Max and Lewis are going through and it could happen to anyone. I will do any small thing I can do to help and if this raises awareness and some money for them, then it’s more than worth it.”

To sponsor Martyn, collect a sponsorship form from the club, in Livingstone Road, Accrington.

The Movember movement generally raises awareness of men's health issues, including cancer, and mental health.