Daniel's condition and how we are going to help him

Our seven year old son Daniel is flying to St Louis in America for surgery. Daniel, who has been diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy, is having the surgery to permanently reduce the symptoms of the condition which inhibit his motor skills and in particular his walking.

After a difficult start in life Daniel has been left with difficulties with mobility as his Cerebral Palsy causes tightness and weakness in his legs and arms. He has been helped greatly by intensive physiotherapy sessions at the Cerebral Palsy Physiotherapy Centre in Bedfordshire and this has been sponsored by our generous friend and local businessman, Craig Fleming at Physio Supplies Limited. This physiotherapy has improved Daniel’s strength and flexibility, which has in turn helped him walk with a frame and even with crutches more recently.

By chance we found out about selective dorsal rhizotomy surgery, but unfortunately this operation is not available in the UK. We contacted St Louis Children’s Hospital where the operation is carried out on a regular basis, to see if Daniel was suitable. The surgeons have studied his medical notes and recent x-rays and videos and have said that Daniel is a very good candidate and highly recommend the surgery for him. After surgery they expect permanent results, with reduced tightness in his limbs that will aid easier movement for the rest of his life. Also his posture and balance will improve, and his walking will improve significantly.

Daniel and dad will fly out to St Louis in a few weeks time while mum and older brother will remain in England to ensure that overall cost is kept to a minimum. The treatment will cost us around £50,000. We have put all our savings in to the treatment, and have borrowed some money and already received some generous donations, but we are appealing to anyone who might be able to contribute to the cost. The operation really will be life changing for Daniel and the whole family.