Harley takes strides after US operation

DAD Paul Hesford says seeing son Harley walking is like winning the lottery

‘It feels like winning the lottery’ - dad
A SPECIAL little boy has been enjoying his first pain-free Christmas, and now he just can’t wait for the chance to play in snow.

Harley Hesford, who suffers from cerebral palsy, this year underwent extensive surgery to help him walk without splints and a walking frame.

The determined Failsworth South Primary School pupil flew to America after a huge fundraising effort from dad Paul and the rest of his family and friends, for the operation that will eventually see a once wheelchair-bound Harley on his feet.

After months of building up his strength, Harely is looking forward to playing with his Christmas presents.

Harley was able to travel to St Louis Children’s Hospital, in Missouri, for the £40,000 surgery due to the efforts of local wellwishers.

Harley’s dad Paul said: “The aim of the operation was to give him a bit more freedom and to be able to move around, and we’re getting there now.

“Harley uses his treadmill every day, and is making a lot of progress using his bike.

“It’s quite hard for him, but he can do it and he’s getting stronger and stronger.

“It’s an amazing thing to see what he can do now, it feels like winning the lottery, like all your Christmases come at once.”