A teenager who has been desperately raising tens of thousands of pounds will definitely have surgery after a charity shop agreed to pay the rest of the money he needs.
He began suffering severe scoliosis during the pandemic which – if left untreated - will significantly limit his quality of life and cause constant pain.
Medical reviews carried out over the course of a year found that his spine had curved to 70 degrees, which has made it harder for Hayden to control his powerchair, eat and drink, and sit comfortably.
A life-changing procedure would allow the young man to regain some independence and ease the agonising aches of his bad back – but the NHS waiting list for it is currently around two years, so the Hydes are hoping to have it done privately at great expense.
Currently, around £40,000 has been raised, whilst planned fundraising days are expected to take the total to £60,000.
After hearing about the teenager's plight, Caroline Mallinson, manager of Walcot Community Shop decided to step in and fund the rest of the money so Hayden's family can go ahead and book the surgery privately.
Hayden said: “This is amazing. I’ve been buzzing all week. It will make a massive difference.”
Dad Danny said: “We didn’t expect this at all, it’s taken a huge weight off our shoulders, we can’t thank them enough.
“The generosity of people has been unbelievable.”
Mum Kirsten added: “This is our light at the end of the tunnel. We’re so relieved, knowing that Hayden can live a more comfortable life.”
Hayden’s friends and family have done all they can to rally support for the cause.
Future fundraising events will include a fundraiser at Ocotal Way Tesco on August 5, a fun day at Crowdy’s Hill School on August 13, a charity football match on August 27, a live music night at Rodbourne Cheney Club on September 2, a golf day on September 7, and 21-mile charity walk on September 8.
The Walcot Community Shop will then cover any remaining funds that are needed to reach the £80,000 target.
Founder Peter Mallinson said: “We said ‘don’t worry, get on with the operation and we will sort the rest out’.
“That’s what we are here for, to help everyone, we've helped a few people in these situations over the years.
"It’s a great success when you can do something like this for someone, it makes us feel good.
“It’s a team effort. The people who donate to the shop, the customers who support it, and the unpaid team of volunteers who run it deserve a lot of the credit.”
The Hydes and Walcot shop team contacted South Swindon MP Robert Buckland to raise awareness of the wider issue with NHS waiting lists for urgent procedures.
Mr Buckland said: “I am in close contact with Hayden and his family, as well as the team at the Walcot Community Shop, and I share their concerns surrounding his health and the wait time that has been given for surgery.
“I have written to both the Health Secretary and the chief executive of NHS England to press for Hayden’s surgery to be carried out urgently.
"Hayden and his family are aware of my strong support and actions, and I will continue to do all I can to support them at this time.”
To donate, visit the Helping Hayden Hyde Facebook group or the fundraising page bit.ly/3CVwJ2z
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel