Party to remember for brave Helaina

BRAVE Helaina Stone had a day to remember as she celebrated the birthday her family thought she would never see.

The teenager, who has battled a lifetime of illness and overcome major medical setbacks, celebrated her 18th birthday with family and friends at Smokies Park Hotel.

Her mum Cath, from New Moston, said it was a very special and memorable occasion.

“It was perfect. Helaina has achieved so much this year but reaching her 18th birthday was amazing — we were told it wouldn’t happen.”

The former UK Children of Courage winner, who suffers from the rare Costello syndrome — which causes physical disabilities, learning difficulties and speech problems — even performed a dance at the event on Sunday.

Helaina has twice fought back cancer and survived brain and open-heart surgery, but now causing concern are heart problems and problems with a spinal rod.


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