Toddler Aiden Thomas can get the operation he needs to let him get up to mischief with his twin brother, following a huge fundraising campaign.
The two-year-old, from Haverhill, is booked in to have his life-changing operation in America in May after his family managed to raise £28,000 of the £50,000 needed.
Aiden, who was born premature, suffers from spastic cerebral palsy, which restricts movement in his legs and right arm. The operation and following rehabilitation should allow him to move his limbs properly.
Mum Vicky Thompson, 33, and dad Gareth, 27, will need to do more fundraising when they return from their trip to America for the operation.
Vicky said: “We’re very excited but I’m also feeling a little sick as it’s a major operation he’ll be having.
“It’s also a bit nerve-racking to know I’m putting him through it, even though it’s for the best and more than worth it – having an operation is quite scary.”
She is hoping Aiden will be able to play more and get up to mischief with twin brother Owen after the surgery.
A recent fundraising fun day raised hundreds of pounds towards the Aiden’s Footsteps Appeal.
The event, at Haverhill Arts Centre, included face painting, children’s tattoos, silent auction, balloons and a raffle.
Organiser Sarah Egan said: “It was a very good day. We had lots of families come along to show their support.
“We raised more than £900. We had hoped to raise a bit more. I don’t think the weather helped.”
Future events include a ladies night and a quiz night.