Son inspires Cork couple to launch attire firm to help families of children with special needs

AN inspirational Cork couple has found a way to help families of children with special needs to triumph through their new business

EchoLive writes: Keeks Accessibles Limited was founded by April and Rob Mullen who were inspired by their eldest son Kian. Kian was born with a rare genetic condition known as FOXG1, meaning he is non-verbal, non-mobile and tube-fed. The couple recently launched the Keeks website providing adaptive footwear and clothing for those with similar conditions to their seven-year-old son. There are many challenges involved in helping Kian live to the fullest, from sourcing equipment and clothing to the intensive medical assistance he needs, which the couple has embraced in a courageous way.

Speaking about how the idea for the business came about, Ms Mullen said: “Although Kian’s condition has introduced a whole range of challenges, he never gives up and remains our bright, happy and determined boy. researchers that discovered Insulin 100 years ago.  On Sunday November 14th will you be out walking, trekking, swimming, surfing, golfing, cycling, or taking part in a family activity?  If so, wear BLUE and celebrate the discovery of insulin, 100 years life-changing moment for people with diabetes all over the world.

“Kian’s condition has meant that over the years we have had to source a lot of inclusive products to assist him in everyday life. One challenge was to find shoes that Kian could wear day-to-day and would fit over his orthotics or Ankle Foot Orthosis (AFOs). “Luckily, one day we stumbled across Billy Footwear, which ticked every box for us. We couldn’t believe it – a shoe that was stylish, functional and most importantly easy to get on.

“Once we received our first pair of Billy shoes there was no going back, it may sound silly but something as simple as finding the right pair of shoes for Kian made our daily life so much easier.” Billy Footwear became the solution they were looking for and it made Kian’s life that little bit easier but the fact that the shoes were only available in the US was another obstacle that had to be overcome, as it meant high shipping costs, import duties and long delivery times.

Mr Mullen said that sizing a shoe for a child with orthotics can be difficult with the cost of returns also not feasible. “In the past, we have ordered shoes that were the wrong size for Kian and instead of returning the shoes we gifted them to some else.

Read more here: EchoLive