A brave Fraserburgh youngster could be walking by Christmas if her recovery from major surgery continues to go as planned.
Isla McNab, 10, flew to the United States in January for treatment at the St Louis Children’s Hospital in Missouri.
The St Andrew’s School pupil had selective dorsal rhizotomy surgery which cut away at damaged nerves on the base of her spine.
Surgeons hoped she might finally be able to leave her wheelchair behind if all went according to plan.
And last night, mum Jane suggested that day could come as soon as Christmas if Isla continues making strides with her intensive physiotherapy programme.
Mrs McNab said: “She’s really coming along.
“She gets her physio twice a week at home and gets hydrotherapy as well. She’s getting stronger every day. The surgery itself has been a total success, but we’ve still got a long way to go.
“She was never going to be walking when she got home, but she’s still on course for independent steps at Christmas.”
Recently, Isla has been experiencing pain in her hips which doctors believe is the result of metal pins that were inserted when she was younger.
She now faces a second round of surgery to remove them, but has been dealing with it with the same determination she showcased on her way to St Louis.
Mrs McNab added: “She had pins put in place four years ago, and a doctor has now recommended they come out.
“Her hips are in place and that could be causing her some discomfort. We’re on a waiting list.
“Isla just takes it all in her stride, of course. She knows what the result could be, so she just keeps working at it. Even though the schools are on holiday, she doesn’t get a break from her physio.”
The family enlisted the support of communities across the north-east to raise £80,000 so Isla could fly to the US for the operation.
Two other youngsters from Aberdeenshire – Dylan Parsons from Peterhead and Elrick youngster Adam Walker – also had successful surgery at the St Louis Children’s Hospital.