A FAMILY has launched an urgent appeal to raise £50,000 to send their son who has autism to Turkey for a life changing operation on his spine.
Dad Adrian Kelly, who is from Castlefinn told Derry Daily: “Hayden was diagnosed with Scoliosis back in September/October, which is a curvature of the spine.
“He is 12 years old, a beautiful, smart, funny boy who has Autism and attends Knockavoe School here in Strabane.
“After being sent for an X-ray in Derry we were told he had an angle of 42degrees which we later found was measured wrong and in fact his curve was measuring at 60 degrees at the time.
“We found this out when we had to go private to see a consultant as the waiting lists here in Ireland are terrible.
“We were told his case was urgent but with the waiting lists the way they are here he could be waiting years for surgery even though he was classed as urgent and he was fitted with a Boston brace.
“As you can imagine the brace is causing a lot of pain and discomfort and with Hayden’s sensory issues is tough getting him to wear it.
An X-ray of Hayden’s spine which needs an immediate operation
“After eight long months, Hayden is growing at a fast rate and seeing so many success stories, we decided the best option for Hayden was to make contact with Dr Alanay in Turkey.
“Dr Alanay recommends Hayden needs surgery ASAP.
“He said he would be happy to help!
“We desperately need your help, to help Hayden get to Turkey for his really important, life changing operation before his health deteriorates further.
“All donations big our small will be greatly appreciated and mean the world to us.”
If you would like to help Hayden, no matter how little or large, you can donate here using these links:
