Deadline looms for Harley’s life-changing trip

AMERICAN dream: Harley Hesford and dad Paul

A RACE against time is on to get an eight-year-old Failsworth boy to America for a life-changing operation.

Little Harley Hesford, who has cerebral palsy, is set to undergo a gruelling medical procedure on April 6 in a bid to help him walk unaided.

The nine-year-old currently needs a frame or modified bike to get around.

His parents launched Harley’s Quest last September to raise £40,000 needed for medical and accommodation costs as well as flights and an amazing £29,000 has been raised so far.

But the Hesford family have just three weeks to collect a further £6,000 to pay for the £35,000 operation costs needed a month in advance.

Paul Hesford, Harley’s dad, said: “We plan to fly out as a family around March 30 but need to pay the operation costs at the start of March. There are still funds outstanding from various events organised over the past few months so we need that money to get to us as soon as possible.

“The operation will be a massive boost for him and give him the independence he craves as he learns to walk unaided for the first time.”

The operation is carried out at a hospital in Wales, but doctors there rejected Harley as unsuitable for the procedure.

However, medical staff at St Louis Children’s Hospital in Missouri, approved Harley for surgery in November.

The family, including Harley’s four siblings, are hoping to be with him in America during the arduous operation, followed by three weeks of physiotherapy.

Mr Hesford said: “A local travel agent has been really helpful in finding cheaper flights and accommodation so the whole family can be with him.

“I’m sure having us all there will make an impact on Harley’s recovery.”

A series of fundraising events have been planned for the next few weeks including a charity day on Sunday, February 19, involving three pubs the Anglers and the Bay, both in Wrigley Head, and the Windmill, Lord Lane.

Anyone with outstanding donations can send money in by following instructions on http://harleysquest.moonfruit.com where there is also more information on upcoming charity events.