Toby
Why does Toby want to learn bouldering?
Sponsorship since: June 2022
Toby is really into bouldering when he first experienced this sport. He is diagnosed with ADHD, ASD and SLD, and thus constantly struggle in normal learning environments. Since taking bouldering classes, he has become more confident and expressive – he would follow through the instructions from his coach and take initiative to communicate with his bouldering friends. We believe bouldering provide excellent opportunities for Toby to equip himself with the skills he needs to be resilient and determined, not just in bouldering, but in life generally.
Financial Difficulties
Toby’s family is relying on social security allowance from the Hong Kong government as their main source income, which is around HKD14,000 per month for a family of 3.
Family Background
Starfish is sponsoring both Toby and his brother Kenny. They are both special needs children. Toby is diagnosed with ADHD, ASD and SLD, and Kenny is suffering from dyslexia which means he has difficulty reading and writing. Their parents are divorced – his father, who is a gambling addict, abused his mother through domestic violence. Toby and his brother had been suspended from school on one occasion in order to avoid the threat from the debt collectors. They also had the experience of changing schools for the same reason. Indeed, his family is constantly living under threats and uncertainties.
Since their father is a gambling addict, Toby and his brother grew up without the love and care of their father. Their mother is exhausted taking care of both children with learning difficulties by herself. To date, we understand Toby’s mother is still being harassed by debt collector from time to time.