Brave Alfie Smith reunited with his brother

Battling Alfie Smith has been given a boost to his recovery by being reunited with his brother.
Alfie Smith and his brother Alex reunited.Alfie Smith and his brother Alex reunited.
Alfie Smith and his brother Alex reunited.

For the first time since he underwent surgery to help him walk again, the Hartlepool nine-year-old was reunited with his brother, Alex, over the weekend.

The seven-year-old was allowed to go to visit his sibling at Leeds General Hospital after more than a week apart.

Matt Haycox visits Alfie Smith in hospital.Matt Haycox visits Alfie Smith in hospital.
Matt Haycox visits Alfie Smith in hospital.
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The boys’ mum, Annie Stalley, said Alfie was really excited about seeing Alex again.

Alfie, who has cerebral palsy, underwent selective dorsal rhizotomy (SDR) at Leeds General Hospital.

The procedure involved Alfie’s back being cut open so that tests could be carried out on the nerve fibres running from the muscles to the spinal cord to find which ones most reduce his mobility, then dividing them to reduce stiffness and spasticity. The operation took between five and six hours.

The youngster was also visited by Matt Haycox and his daugher, who took him some toys and gifts.

Matt Haycox visits Alfie Smith in hospital.Matt Haycox visits Alfie Smith in hospital.
Matt Haycox visits Alfie Smith in hospital.
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Matt, who lives in Leeds, donated £16,000 towards helping the youngster walk again.

Annie said: “Matt brought Alfie lots of gifts which was very kind of him. They’ll definitely keep Alfie entertained.”

She said the youngster has now been moved to another ward until Monday when he will be released after his first physio session.

Annie said: “I’m very proud of him. He’s been so brave and a pleasure to look after said the ladies on this ward.”

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She said her son was in a unbearable pain after the epidural wore off and it was very distressing.

However, she added: “It hasn’t been an easy journey but we are still so grateful for this one and only opportunity to change Alfie’s life.

“We promise you, we will do just that together. Thank you to everyone for your support.”