Teenager walks marathon after live-saving brain surgery to thank 'outstanding' staff at Sheffield Children's Hospital

Ben Mattocks, 14, spent 10 weeks in Sheffield Children's Hospital after contracting the infection which was triggered by a bout of sinusitis in January.

But, despite a "long and difficult journey" to regain his movement, he took his first steps six weeks ago and has continued virtual physiotherapy sessions after the coronavirus outbreak meant he could not attend in person.

Lucy Wrens, Ben's mother, said her son wanted to thank the hospital staff for their "outstanding" care and has walked over 26 miles in six days – raising £1,674 for The Children's Hospital Charity.

She said: "Ben was a very active child, attending the gym five times a week and he loved to play sport, everything from swimming to football. The change was so sudden. It was heartbreaking seeing him not able to move or respond to us.

"Following his surgery, Ben faced the possibility of spending the rest of his life in a wheelchair and began a long and difficult journey to regain both his movement and strength.

"The care he received at Sheffield Children's was outstanding, it was second-to-none. The staff are angels in disguise, every single one of them we encountered was fantastic.

"Ben wanted to give something back. He has faced some very dark and difficult times over the last few months but has overcome every hurdle that has stood in his way.”

Ben was in a critical condition when he was taken to the High Dependency Unit at Sheffield Children's Hospital.

He had an operation to clear the infection and underwent a craniectomy to remove part of his skull and relieve the pressure on his brain.

Ms Wrens added: "We can't thank everyone enough for their generous donations, which have seen Ben smash his target. He is an inspiration to us all."

The charity, which has seen fundraising decline by over 60 per cent during lockdown, has launched a Covid-19 Appeal to support patients and staff.

To donate visit www.tchc.org.uk, call 0114 3212470, or text SHEFFCHILDRENS to 70085 to give £5.

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