An Ipswich mother has spoken of her gratitude after public donations helped to buy a machine which will help treat her children with cystic fibrosis.

Dawn Robinson’s daughters Sophie, 16, and Scarlett, 4, both have the condition and need regular physiotherapy.

This helps clear the mucus that can build up in their lungs but obviously needs someone to perform the treatment.

But now they’ve been able to buy a machine which, although not a substitute for physiotherapy, can help clear their airways.

It works by sending vibrations to a special vest worn by the patient which removes the mucus.

The family, who live in Clump Field in Chantry, had one machine on a trial basis but wanted one of their own to keep.

Mrs Robinson said they cost hundreds of pounds but they were able to get one from an American company at a cheaper price.

When the Ipswich Star featured Mrs Robinson and her daughters earlier this year the family received over £2,000 in donations.

She said: “If it wasn’t for the fund-raising there’s no way we would have been able to buy it.

“It’s something in our lives that will help us. If they can’t do physiotherapy they can use the machine.

“It’s not a replacement for the physiotherapy though. It’s an extra that just makes life a bit more flexible.”

Mrs Robinson added that the girls, along with three-year-old Spring who is still being tested for the condition, have quickly taken to the machine.

She added: “They seem to be pleased with it and they’re tolerating them really well.

“It (cystic fibrosis) is a life changing thing and the vest is helping their lives.

“I want to thank everybody who’s supported us throughout the fund-raising.”