A BOY who faces daily challenges due to cerebral palsy is one step closer to a life-changing operation - and he is asking the community to help him have a better life.

Archie King, 6, from, West End, was three years old when he was diagnosed with cerebral palsy.

The condition affects movement and co-ordination, forcing the St James CE Primary School pupil to tiptoe walk, wear a splint on his left leg, and have botox injections in his legs every three to four months to relieve the stiffness in his muscles.

As previously reported, his family had launched a campaign to raise £60,000 to fund an operation called selective dorsal rhizotomy, not available on the NHS.

The surgery, which involves cutting some of the nerve fibres that are responsible for spasticity, would be life-changing.

After contacting specialists from across the world, doctors have now told Alfie that he can undergo the operation in London.

This could happen at the Portland Hospital or at the Great Ormond Street Hospital, and it is hoped he will benefit greatly from the treatment.

His family is now asking the community to take part in a series of events and help raise the money needed as soon as possible.

Archie’s mum Stephanie said: “Doctors said he is a really good candidate for this and the sooner he gets it the better.

“His muscles have got tighter recently and the doctors said without the surgery as he grows he will have more pain in his legs, he will need orthopaedic surgery, more botox injections and he will tiptoe walk more.

“The operation will eliminate all of that. It’s such a relief, but now we need to raise the money.”

The 31-year-old hairdresser is organising a fun family day at 2000 Centre in Hedge End on August 4 and a grand ball at Botley Park Hotel on November 17.

“This operation will be life-changing and we are hoping to get it done as soon as possible,” the mother-of-two said.

“This can give him a life without so many limitations. I can’t change the past but I can change the future.”

The family event in Hedge End will be free and there will be bouncy castles and lost of food and activities.

Meanwhile, tickets for the grand ball in November cost £50 person or £450 for a table of ten and include drinks on arrival, a three-course dinner and live music.

To book call Stephanie on 07918084488. To donate visit www.justgiving.com/campaigns/charity/just4children/cpandmearchiesstory.