THORNBURY toddler Ezzy Hodge has taken her first steps, only a matter of weeks after a life changing operation in the United States.

Three-year-old Ezzy, who was diagnosed with cerebral palsy last year, underwent revolutionary new surgery last month for her condition following the success of the “Ezzy’s Wish to Walk” campaign, which raised £80,000 in the space of eight months.

With the surgery a success, Ezzy began intensive physiotherapy and, in less than three weeks, took her first steps unaided.

“It was amazing, it was beyond what we could have expected,” said mum Angela.

“We had no expectations anyway but deep down inside you imagine that she will just get up and walk.

“Obviously in reality that is not the case but for her to make such progress in such a short space of time to us made every single thing we did worthwhile.

“We knew something magical had happened as soon as she woke up,” she said. “If someone else wasn’t there to prove it, you wouldn’t believe it but immediately she said ‘Mummy, I’ve found my legs!’”

Beginning the therapy on a frame, and then progressing to using a cane for stability and to balance the weight put on her hips, Ezzy took four steps unaided earlier this week, something doctors had originally expected to take up to 12 months.

She is still using the frame but it is hoped she will not need it soon.

Angela added that the doctors believe she could even be able to run within the next six-to-12 months.

Gazette Series: Ezzy with parents Angela and Matt when the campaign was launched last yearEzzy with parents Angela and Matt when the campaign was launched last year

Ezzy’s condition has also meant a very limited use of her left arm, and the sudden realisation that it worked meant that immediately following surgery she began clapping her hands together over her head, a previously impossible task.

“She is a lot more relaxed and seems happier. That in itself is priceless. You can see how proud she is being able to walk with the cane.”

The campaign, which the Gazette helped launch in October last year, saw people from across the region hold fundraisers, ranging from skydives and marathon runs to mini-festivals and fun days, with donations coming from across the country.

With the family set to return home next Tuesday, Angela said the family are looking forward to seeing everyone and getting on with everyday life.