But a retired engineer tinkering in his workshop in Melba has just made Mother's Day - and every day - that little bit easier for Gilmore mum Francine Rowland-Mahmoud.

The 28-year-old has to use a wheelchair due to the lifelong effects of the rare genetic disorder Phenylketonuria (PKU), something checked for in newborns through the heel-prick test.

The PKU disorder affects the breakdown of protein in some foods and over the years, despite a low-protein diet, has affected Francine's gait.

She and husband Mahmoud Abouhamza continue to live as normally as possible, including welcoming their first-born Ali, now three-months-old and, thankfully, clear of PKU.

In preparation for the birth, the volunteer-based, not-for-profit organisation Technology for Ageing and Disability ACT (TADACT) offered Francine help.

TADACT volunteer and retired engineer Chris Diener customised a cot for Francine, which included a scissor-lift mechanism that allows her to raise the bed level to allow her legs and wheelchair underneath.

The cot also has barn-style doors which open the side of the cot completely so she can get as close as possible to her baby. Once Ali is able to move around, she will be able to lower the bed to the floor and let him crawl out on its own, rather than have to lift him up and down.

Mr Diener also made arms that connect to Francine's wheelchair to Ali's pram, allowing her to push the pram easily in front of her when she's out and about.

"It's so much easier and I can do it," Francine said. "To be able to do it myself makes life so much better."

Mr Diener, 76, has been a volunteer with TADACT for 17 years. "I like tinkering," he said.

TADACT executive director Julie Lobel said volunteers such as Mr Diener made a big difference, as the organisation worked to improve the physical independence of the aged and adults and children with disabilities.

"He's just an amazing man." Ms Lobel said. "He's patient and he listens to what people need."