Little Adam Walker’s parents never thought they would see the day when their son could run around outside.
Having battled cerebral palsy his entire life, the seven-year-old Aberdeenshire boy has never been able to tie his own shoelaces, nor get himself in and out of the family car.
But thanks to a life-changing operation in the USA, his mother and father now have hope that he will be able to move around properly for the first time.
The youngster underwent major surgery at the St Louis Children’s Hospital, Missouri, at the weekend where surgeons cut the faulty nerves in his spine that were causing stiffness in his legs.
He is now recovering from the procedure, and will be allowed to return home to the north-east in three weeks following intensive physiotherapy.
Last night, his proud parents, Pam and Graham, said their son had been extremely brave and that they were incredibly hopeful for the future.
Adam, who is a pupil at Elrick Primary School and lives in the village, developed the debilitating condition – which affects muscle tone and movement – after he was born prematurely at 27 weeks along with twin sister Gemma.
Mrs Walker said: “He is recovering well and already moving around a little.
“The doctors are really pleased and he is already able to wiggle the toes on his left foot a little, which he couldn’t do before.
“The doctor says that within six months we should see great progress. He said sports day next year should be much better for him.
“We are feeling really positive and are excited to see how he does once he can get up.”
But to get to this point has not been the easiest journey for the family, as Adam’s procedure – Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy – is not available on the NHS.
Mr and Mrs Walker had to embark on an ambitious fundraising drive – which they called Adam’s Aim – to raise the £50,000 needed for him to have surgery in America.
Mrs Walker said the procedure would never have been possible if it was not for the support of everyone who contributed to their campaign.
“We are so grateful to all who helped afford Adam this opportunity and can’t wait to see all that effort pay off in the coming months,” she said.
“We have had lots of support from back home while we have been here, which has been amazing.”