A BRAVE young girl from Pawlett who was born with a serious physical disability will be able to stand and eventually walk for the first time, thanks to a life-changing operation.

Jessica Avery was born with a type of cerebral palsy, which means her brain sends out incorrect messages to the nerves which control her muscles, making it difficult for her to move and walk.

She was born prematurely at 29 weeks with a neurological condition called Periventricular Leukmalacia (PVL), which led to her having quadriplegic cerebral palsy.

The six-year-old and her family have just returned home from America where Jessica underwent highly specialised surgery which now means she will be able to stand up and walk around with minimal support.

The Avery family has been fundraising since last summer to generate the cash needed for Jessica’s treatment at the St Louis Children Hospital in Missouri.

Before the miracle operation Jessica used a walker to move short distances but otherwise needed a wheelchair to get around.

To date over £54,000 has been raised through two campaigns, ‘Help Jessica Walk’ and ‘Jump for Jessica’, along with collections at carnival and other events.

On their return home, Jessica’s mum Kate Avery spoke to the Mercury to share her daughter’s incredible progress.

She said: “It was absolutely amazing straight after the operation we could see a difference in Jessica – she just looked a lot more relaxed.

“It’s completely life-changing for her and we are all just so happy.

“With a little bit of support she may well be able to stand on her own quite soon but it will take a lot of work.

“We want to thank everyone who has donated to help Jessica walk – it’s been her dream and it means the world to us.”

The family is still fundraising for the equipment and the two years of intensive physiotherapy Jessica will need.

A bingo night is being held in aid of Jessica’s cause this Friday (March 6) at the Pawlett Pavilion. Doors open at 6.45pm for a 7.30pm start and there will also be a raffle and a cake sale.

For more information call Kate on 07791- 554864 or visit www.helpjessicawalk.com.

You can also donate to the cause at www.justgiving.com/helpjessicawalk.