Jamie Ross
A north-east youngster has taken a huge step forward in his recovery from major surgery overseas.
Peterhead boy Dylan Parsons walked for the first time last year after undergoing life-changing surgery at St Louis Children’s Hospital in Missouri.
Now his mother, Jenna, has spoken of her joy at seeing her boy ride a bike for the first time.
The four-year-old travelled to the US after a major fundraising drive which raised more than £50,000 to fund the operation by renowned doctor Tae S. Park.
In October 2013, the family faced the reality of having to see Dylan live his life confined to a wheelchair.
But following corrective surgery to release nerves from his spine, Dylan, who has cerebral palsy, has even managed to take part in his school’s sports day.
Mrs Parsons described Dylan riding a bike for the first time as a “huge milestone”.
“This is something we would have never imagined could happen before the operation,” she added.
“Dr Park is happy with the progress Dylan has made and we always keep him up-to-date with videos for example of how Dylan is doing.
“Dylan does as many activities as possible and it’s all about making things fun for him.”
Dylan is the third child from the north-east to undergo the pioneering surgery with Dr Park.
Isla McNab, 10, flew to the US in January for treatment and has since taken her own steps towards walking independently.
The schoolgirl from Fraserburgh is on track to be walking alone by Christmas.
Elrick youngster Adam Walker, seven, underwent the same procedure – a selective dorsal rhizotomy – last year.
Dr Park said he had treated about 3,000 patients so far in his time at the hospital.
He said: “While the procedure will not cure cerebral palsy, I have seen it improve quality of life for children and their families.
“Children who were once told they would never walk can now swim, dance, and play with their friends. That is extremely gratifying, to say the least.”