Rawtenstall youngster says thanks with hugs to Great Ormond Street (From Lancashire Telegraph)

Rawtenstall youngster says thanks with hugs to Great Ormond Street

9:30pm Monday 5th December 2011 in Rawtenstall By Vanessa Cornall, Reporter

A YOUNGSTER has been giving out sponsored hugs after overcoming a serious operation on his heart.

Six-year-old Matthew Jaycock, who has Downs Syndrome, was born with AVSD, otherwise known as a hole in the heart.

The Balladen Primary School pupil underwent an operation to close the hole at just four months old, but doctors discovered earlier this year that he needed further surgery to reduce it again and remove a blockage.

Matthew’s mum Caroline 46, said: “Matthew is a very happy and cheeky chappy.

"His first operation at just four-months-old was really difficult to deal with as he was so small but we were relieved doctors thought he wouldn’t need any further surgery.

"But at his last check up, the doctors decided he needed surgery again.

“I don’t think Matthew really understands he was poorly, but he is very proud of his scar.

“It took him four weeks to recover from the operation and we have already noticed his concentration levels have increased.”

Matthew, who lives with his mum, dad Gary, 53 and big sister Alexandra, eight, in Derby Terrace, Rawtenstall, decided to give something back to Great Ormond Street Hospital, in London, by holding a sponsored hug.

In just one day the caring youngster gave out 230 hugs and raised £225. His big sister Alexandra also helped out with the fundraising and ran a cake stall in school which raised £125.

Housewife Caroline said: “With all the fundraising that has been going on recently for the likes of Children in Need, I was really surprised with all the support we received.

“Matthew did brilliantly.

“In the days leading up to the big day he had already hugged 35 people. He is very affectionate.

“The hospital has done so much for us we just decided we wanted to give something back in our own unique way.”