An Ilkley boy has returned home from the United States after surgery to help him walk unaided.

Ben Smithson, nine, who has cerebral palsy, underwent the pioneering operation after a massive fundraising campaign raised more than £45,000.

He will now undergo daily physiotherapy sessions after the Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy (SDR) surgery at the St Louis Children’s Hospital in Missouri.

The football-mad youngster is hoping he will soon be able to have a kickabout with his school friends after his surgeon said he should be walking and running by the end of the year.

He has an hour of physiotherapy a day for six days a week, and hopes to beat his doctor’s target as he builds up his muscles.

Ben said he was glad to be home and would not miss the hospital. “I was in a little bit of pain,” he said.

“It felt like I was in there my whole life even though it was only five days.”

Ben was joined in Missouri by mum Charlotte, dad Damian and younger brother Jacob.

On Monday it was back to school at All Saints Primary, Ilkley.

For the latest on Ben’s rehabilitation, visit benswishtowalk.

co.uk

  • Read the full story in Thursday’s T&A