A INSPIRATIONAL Hampshire schoolgirl battling to walk unaided has received a vital donation towards the cost of her physiotherapy.

Ten-year-old Keeley Cullen, who suffers from cerebral palsy, has made "amazing" progress she underwent a procedure known as Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy (SDR) in 2016.

Surgeons at the world-famous Great Ormond Street Hospital in London cut through the faulty spinal nerves that were responsible for the stiffness in her legs.

But despite her life-changing operation Keeley needs years of privately-funded physiotherapy and rehabilitation, which is set to cost at least £20,000.

Now the Keep Keeley Moving appeal has received a further £2,000 donation from the Barker-Mill Foundation (BMF), taking the total raised so far to £7,000.

Keeley's mum, Zara Cullen, of Marchwood, said: “This second donation from the BMF is so greatly appreciated.

"It will really help with Keeley’s private physiotherapy costs, which are £85 an hour at a centre in Bournemouth, and with her intensive strength and conditioning courses in Wales.

“We're aiming to raise £20,000 to ensure she gets as much treatment as possible.

"We're always looking for ways to ensure she is comfortable, happy and continuing her amazing progress while still making the most of her childhood like any other ten-year-old.

"Thanks to the BMF we are one step closer to meeting our fundraising target.”

As reported in the Daily Echo, Keeley has three wishes - to walk, to play in the park with her friends and become a cheerleader like her mother.

BMF trustee Tim Jobling said: “It’s fantastic to see how far Keeley has come since she had her life-changing surgery back in 2016.

"We were more than happy to provide a second donation to help her to continue to make outstanding progress."

Describing Keeley as "inspirational" Mr Jobling added: "Her drive to keep pushing on with all the courses, sessions and physiotherapy is admirable and we hope the appeal meets its target to ensure she's able to receive plenty of beneficial treatment and help her meet her three wishes.

The BMF helps schools, charities and other good causes by using funds provided by the Barker-Mill family in memory of local landowner Peter Barker-Mill.

The foundation has made donations totalling more than £4 million since it was launched in 1995.

To find out more about Keeley's campaign call the Caudwell Children charity on 01782 600114. Donations can be made by going online and visiting justgiving.com/keepkeeleymoving.

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