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£20,000 Raised for Blind Girl’s Pioneering Operation |
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Wednesday, 09 July 2008 |
Source: Belfast Telegraph
By Claire McNeilly
A young west Belfast mother last night told how she is getting closer to funding a revolutionary operation which will help her daughter see for the first time.
Leanne Traynor's first child Megan (5) was born with Septo-optic Dysplasia (SOD), a rare brain condition that requires pioneering stem-cell surgery in China at a cost of £30,000.
Already, donations from generous Belfast Telegraph readers and fundraising activities have helped raise a staggering £20,000 £ in just three months.
Speaking to the Belfast Telegraph today, Leanne (24), who gave birth to her second child, Hannah, six weeks ago, said she was deeply grateful to everyone who has helped their plight so far.
"My husband Stuart (27) and I can hardly believe we've reached £20,000; that's a pretty big milestone," said Leanne (pictured above with Megan).
"When we opened an account for Megan in April we were hoping to raise the money we need by the end of the year, so we're astounded that we've got so much in just three months.
"People have been unbelievably generous. It has restored my faith in human nature. You can be very hard on people sometimes, but when something like this happens it really changes your opinion."
Leanne and her husband have had their fair share of problems in recent months.
Firstly, ahead of the birth of their second daughter, the couple were warned that their newborn might also have SOD £ a fear that turned out to be unfounded once healthy little Hannah came into the world.
That good news was, however, blighted somewhat when the couple learned that their home had been burgled their home as Leanne was giving birth, stealing cherished belongings valued at more than £1,000.
Then, just two weeks ago, the family suffered yet another devastating blow when Leanne's grandmother, Margaret, died in England, aged 64.
But despite these setbacks, retail manager Leanne and her husband, a law student, have been keeping their spirits up and their hearts focused on fundraising.
Megan is one of only a few children in Northern Ireland born with SOD. The rare and debilitating condition means the toddler is blind, suffers from epilepsy and diabetes, as well as having learning difficulties and a growth hormone deficiency.
The brave little girl must also endure daily hormone injections and multiple medications.
As the pioneering stem cell treatment she requires is unavailable in the UK, her only hope is to travel to China.
Anyone wishing to help Megan's appeal can donate money at the Halifax building society.
Her account number is 00789720, sort code 110976, and account name Megan Traynor.
Otherwise, cheques can be made out to Leanne Traynor and sent C/O Belfast Telegraph and they will be forwarded on.
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Last Updated ( Thursday, 10 July 2008 )
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