A fundraiser is set to take place in Dumbarton this week to raise awareness of a rare childhood illness.

Rapid-onset obesity with hypothalamic dysregulation, hypoventilation, and automatic dysregulation (ROHHAD) is a condition that affects respiratory control and the nervous system. 

Aaron Hunter, now 14 and from Dumbarton, was diagnosed with the disorder aged just three, which completely changed his life.

The condition affects one in 73 million children, with no cure being available at present.

This inspired his mum, Lisa French, to start the ROHHAD Association charity with the aim of finding a resolution.

READ MORE: Dumbarton church shares history ahead of 50th anniversary

Kirsty McGregor Burns, who has organised the fundraiser and is a friend of the family, opened up on the importance of the event.

"I first met Lisa, the CEO of the charity, in August 2018 when she asked if I would be able to support this yearly fundraising event," she said.

"That evening, Lisa spoke about her son Aaron, a ROHHAD warrior, which captured the hearts of everyone present and immediately made me more determined about fundraising for the charity.

(Image: Kirsty McGregor Burns) "Running this event has me hopeful that we can raise a lot of funds that will allow the research into ROHHAD to take place.

"Due to this being a rare disease, there are no funds except those that are donated, which we hope can fund finding a cure.

"This is Aaron's dream for all of his friends he is connected with worldwide, in the hope that we can reduce the fatalities and invasive surgeries these children face.

"The ROHHAD Association runs fundraisers all year round, but I am hopeful that with your help this event is the best one yet."

'An Evening of Mediumship' is being held in the Denny Civic Theatre in Dumbarton on Friday, October 11.

Tickets cost £12 and the first demonstration begins at 7pm, with Kirsty, Elaine McCulloch and Alice Harley providing the readings.

Tea and coffee and other refreshments will also be available at a small extra cost.

A raffle will also be on offer for those in attendance.

Anyone interested in buying a ticket can contact Lisa on 07917225276 or Louise by phoning 07881100083.