Ladies, we’d like to tell you about a very brave little boy today. This little boy is currently facing into a big operation that will hopefully change his life for the better.
The Irish Daily Star reports that a three year old boy from Dublin is having a crucial medical check-up today ahead of some truly life-changing surgery.
Why is it so life-changing? Well the surgery means that this little boy could take his first steps in time for Christmas.
Jacob Foley Keenan, from Tallaght, currently suffers from cerebral palsy – a disease which affects both his legs. As a result, Jacob has never been able to stand up unassisted. However, he is currently attending the notable St Louis Children’s Hospital in Missouri and he is expected to undergo a spinal operation within the next few days.
If the operation is a success, Jacob could be walking by the time Christmas gets here.
Speaking yesterday, Marie Keenan, Jacob’s Granny, expressed her thanks to the Irish public, who have already pledged €66,000 to a fund set up for Jacob. This money will cover his medical bills and will also assist with post-operative care and living expenses during Jacob’s stay (naturally his family is accompanying him on his journey).
“Jacob’s very excited about it. He’s aware what’s going on and that this is a special trip to America, where doctors are going to make his legs better,” said Ms Keenan.
“It’s very comforting to know that he’s about to get the best treatment he could get anywhere in the world, as the surgeons here have a 100 per cent success record,” she added.
At present, Jacob is only able to make a few severely-limited movements with a special walking frame so there is no doubt that this operation will drastically improve his quality of life.
“It [the operation] wouldn’t have been possible without the generosity of so many Irish people,” said Ms Keenan.
Jacob, we sincerely hope your operation is a success and we wish you a super-speedy recovery!
