The community is being asked to open their hearts to a young cerebral palsy sufferer who urgently needs a major operation in Pretoria.

Although Matthew Theunissen (12) has suffered all his life from challenges related to his condition, it has reached the point where he is now suffering seizures and severe muscle pain.

The ZO first covered his predicament 10 years ago, when a fundraising dance marathon was held to aid his adoptive parents, Piet and Geraldine, after he was abandoned at hospital by his mother when just five weeks old.

Now they are planning another fundraising event to help cover the cost of surgery that will involve muscle lengthening and replacement of his left hip.

“We are incredibly grateful that his medical aid will cover the surgery itself, but there are other significant expenses, including travel, rehabilitation and medical supplies,” said Geraldine.

To this end, they are hosting a run/walk at the Richards Bay Christian School pre-school grounds on Saturday, 1 August.

Registration is at 9am and the walk itself takes place between 10am and 2pm.

A donation of R25 per lap will be appreciated.

A market stall and kids’ entertainment will add to the day’s fun.

For more information, contact Geraldine on 083 4607632 or Piet on 083 2284600.

Anyone able to contribute can use the following account:

Nedbank current account
Branch code: 198765
Account holder: M Theunissen
Account number: 1157890431
Ref: Muffins

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