Joshua was born with a condition called Pectus Excavatum as well as rib flare (see pic). Pectus Excavatum is where the breast bone grows inwards due to overgrowth of the connective tissue that joins the ribs to the sternum. This in turn can cause the ribs at the bottom to flare outwards if severe.

As Josh continues to grow this has become dramatically worse during his growth spurt and he has started to experience many symptoms. Pectus Excavatum can range from mild to severe, Joshua has been diagnosed with a moderately severe case earlier this year.

Unfortunately in 2019 the NHS stopped funding this condition as they believed that it was only a cosmetic procedure. Although true in some milder cases, Pectus Excavatum can create pressure on the heart and lungs, causing cardiac and respiratory complications in more severe cases. Their decision to stop all funding for Pectus Excavatum has left many teenagers with hearts being crushed, literally by their own bones.

Joshua's symptoms currently consist of pressure and pain on his chest, fatigue, shortness of breath (after exercise), lightheadedness, as well as his oxygen levels averaging at around 93%

We have done so much research on this condition and the treatment available. We have found a doctor called Joel Dunning based in Middlesbrough who is happy to see Joshua on the NHS. Through doctor Joel Dunning, Joshua can be treated on the NHS right up to the point of surgery, at which point it is down to us to fund the operation. By doing it this way it will enable us to bring down the whole cost of the private treatment.

The operation that will help Joshua is called the NUSS procedure, which is keyhole surgery. This is where metal bars are inserted between the sternum that will push his chest into a normal position. These bars are removed around 3 years later.

The operation that is needed will initially cost £10,000 with an added £3,000 when the bars are removed.

Joshua is 16 years old and has a massive interest in all things sport. He is planning on starting a sports course next September with the intention of working within the industry. Joshua's condition has now reached the stage where he feels that it is holding him back as his symptoms are becoming persistently worse. If we are able to fund this operation, Joshua would benefit greatly as it will eliminate his symptoms, improve his heart and lung function and enable him to pursue his passion in sport.

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Many Thanks for all your support.