Little Leon flying out for life-changing US operation (From Thurrock Gazette)

Little Leon flying out for life-changing US operation

8:00am Friday 10th February 2012 in News

A TODDLER is this week flying to the United States for a life-changing operation thanks to the generosity of fundraisers.

Leon Wray, two, who suffers from cerebral palsy, will be flying out to America with his mum Kelly for a Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy operation on Wednesday, February 15.

The operation, at a hospital in Missouri, will cut away the nerve endings that do not work properly to allow the toddler to take his first steps without the help of his walking frame.

Parents Kelly and Scott have already raised £36,122 of the £45,000 needed for the cost of the operation, as well as after care and equipment.

Kelly, 30, of Corran Way, South Ockendon, said: “I can’t thank people enough.

“Without the help from everyone who has donated money, Leon would not be flying out to America and having this operation.

“Without all these people he would not be taking his first steps.”

Residents, businesses from across the borough and even the mayor have taken Leon’s cause to their heart and organised fundraisers, as well as donating money since Many last year. At a farewell party last Saturday at the Jack O’Lantern, in Daiglen Drive, South Ockendon, the family raised an additional £614 from a sponsored male-only waxing session.

Students from the Ockendon Academy school, in Erriff Drive, South Ockendon, also raised £1,000 towards Leon’s cause.

Mother-of-two Kelly, who will fly back with Leon on March 23, added: “It was great to have so many people at the party on Saturday. People have changed his life.

“Hopefully he will be able to take his first steps while he is out there.”