AN appeal has been launched to help a toddler who has brain damage and cerebral palsy have life changing surgery.

Eighteen-month-old twin Luca Johnson, from Leigh, was born prematurely and was very ill in his first ten months, suffering from sepsis, meningitis and the bowel condition NEC.

Due to having brain damage and cerebral palsy Luca is unable to walk, talk, stand or sit without help.

A crowdfunding page has been set up to pay for the treatment, selective dorsal rhizotomy (SDR), to help with Luca’s muscle spasticity. This is not available on the NHS.

Remaining funds would be used to fund physiotherapy for Luca before and after surgery.

Luca’s mum Jodie, 30, said: “My little hero has overcome so much in his short life.

"His first 18 months should have been filled with smiles and happiness, but instead he was battling deadly diseases that have left him with a lifetime of complications.

“Things that come easy to other babies are very difficult for Luca, but he’s a warrior who brings us so much joy.

"We want to give him the absolute best chance in life, and that’s why we’re raising money for the surgery and care that could change his life.”

Luca has had meningitis four times, sepsis twice, and NEC.

Jodie added: “When Luca had his third episode of meningitis, I knew something else was wrong.

"At the time, I was just worried about him becoming ill again, but I noticed that he was lagging behind his twin sister Lola in development.

“After we started noticing changes in his development, I started feeling depressed.

“He couldn’t grasp on to things, and his hands were balled into fists.

"His body and limbs were stiff, and he was trying to reach his toys with his tongue instead.

“When we got the diagnosis of cerebral palsy in November last year, the first few days were horrific.

"You read all sorts of horror stories online, and you can’t help but worry about your child.

"But instead of being negative, I decided to raise awareness of Luca’s journey, helping others who are in similar situations.”

Jodie set up an Instagram page where more than 4,000 people showed their support for Luca and shared their stories.

“A diagnosis is just a label," Jodie said.

"People can see how well Luca is doing despite everything he’s been through.

“Luckily, I have a very supportive family. They look after Lola and his two-year-old brother Nova when we have to go to Luca’s medical appointments.

“We also do physiotherapy with Luca every day.

He’s our little hero and we want him to achieve everything he can.”

Jodie hopes Luca can have SDR surgery when he turns three to reduce the stiffness in his legs.

A target of £30,000 has been set to pay for the surgery and the physiotherapy.

To donate to Jodie's Justgiving page click here.