Let us introduce you to Harry, our incredible 7-year-old son from Duston, Northampton. Charismatic, cheeky, and intelligent, Harry is an absolute marvel and a true fighter. He defied the odds from the moment he was born, surviving prematurity, life-saving bowel surgery at just one day old, and numerous sepsis infections during his time in NICU.

However, Harry’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges. He suffered a brain injury called periventricular leukomalacia, which has resulted in spastic diplegia cerebral palsy. This affects his movements, particularly in his legs, meaning Harry is unable to stand or walk unaided. This is a big obstacle for such an active little boy who adores rugby, Strictly Come Dancing, and PE at school! Harry dreams of taking his first independent step—or perhaps even scoring a try one day.

In October 2019, Harry underwent pioneering neurosurgery called Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy (SDR). This intricate procedure involved cutting specific rootlets in his spinal cord that caused spasticity in his legs. We’re thrilled to share that Harry’s incredible surgeon, Mr. Aquilina, and his dedicated team successfully removed 100% of the spasticity! It was a monumental step toward helping Harry stand and walk unaided.

But, of course, there’s a but—a BIG but. We need to raise another £20,000–£30,000 to pay for the intensive physiotherapy that is crucial for Harry’s progress. Without this physiotherapy, the benefits of his SDR surgery would be entirely lost. Harry requires physiotherapy (not available through the NHS) approximately 3–4 times a week for at least 3–4 years. This comes at a cost of about £80 per hour. Additionally, we need to fund special equipment like a trike to help improve his independence and mobility.

Raising this money would mean the world to Harry, his family, and his friends. It would allow Harry to join in with playground games at school, play with his siblings, and, most importantly, take that first precious step.

We deeply appreciate you taking the time to read Harry’s story. Every donation—big or small—brings Harry closer to achieving his dreams and living a more independent, fulfilling life.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast, and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving—they’ll never sell your information or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, the funds go directly to the charity, saving time and cutting costs.

Thank you for your kindness and support—it truly means the world to us and to Harry.

7.5% of all donations to Tree of Hope in relation to this appeal will be allocated to the general charitable purposes of Tree of Hope to cover our core operating costs.

If we raise insufficient funds, or surplus funds, then the funds will be used, if appropriate, to fund support for our child’s needs in accordance with Tree of Hope’s charitable objects. If in those circumstances we are unable to use all or part of the funds for the benefit of our child in accordance with Tree of Hope’s charitable objectives, then any funds that cannot be used will be transferred to be used for the general charitable purposes of Tree of Hope.