Good news for Tauranga boy, Austin

Austin Manning, with his physiotherapist Amanda Meys, at Avenues Physio-Fitness where he had been strengthening his limbs for his operation. PHOTO/RUTH KEBER

Austin Manning has received life-changing surgery in America at St Louis Children Hospital.

His doctor was so positive about Austin's future he decided to do another procedure to stop his legs from scissoring as he walks.

Austin, who turned 8 earlier this month, is one of 7000 people in New Zealand with cerebral palsy. He suffers from periventricular leukomalacia (a brain injury), asymmetric spastic quadriplegia, developmental delay and has problems with his vision.

There are no operations available in New Zealand to relieve the spasticity of his limbs caused by the cerebral palsy. However, the surgery, which reduces muscle stiffness, is offered by Dr Park at St Louis Children's Hospital.

More than $15,000 was raised for Austin's trip to America for the surgeries, as well as a major store getting behind the cause.

Specsavers Bayfair and Tauranga got behind the cause and donated $10 from every pair of children's glasses sold in-store, as well as throwing a fun day with face painting, balloon art and other activities.

Specsavers retail director Glenn Dunkerley said Austin had been coming into the store since he was a baby and he and others in the store had got to know the family really well.

Austin will start light physio this week before starting several weeks on intense physio.