Message from Jacobs mam -

''Hi, my name is Rachel and I'm trying to raise money for my son's surgery. He has recently been diagnosed with pectus excavatum and needs urgent surgery to lift his chest wall out to relieve the pressure from his heart and lungs that this condition is causing. My son Jacob is 14 years old and has dreams of joining the army, however due to this condition this is not possible as it is making it difficult for him to perform everyday tasks such as walking, running and any form of exercise. This is weighing heavy on Jacob's mind and causing problems for his wellbeing as well as physical health, he cannot do normal child things such as play outside with his friends or ride his bike, which means he is stuck inside for the majority of his childhood. On top of this he must sit helpless while his dreams of joining the army slip away as his condition worsens. Donating to this cause will help me afford the surgery for my son to take the pressure off his heart and lungs, and eventually he will be able to live his life as a normal 14-year-old.

The NHS has said this is classed in the same category as breast implants and bat ears. This is so frustrating as this condition is so restricting in his life and can never improve as he ages unless surgery is done

The prime target age for operation is between 14 - 16 years old.

England did this operation on the NHS but stopped before covid due to cutbacks, but the crazy thing is Scotland and Wales still do it

Jacob's consultant at the RVI totally disagrees with NHS decision and fully believes this operation should be performed as it is desperately needed for children like Jacob

We have the backing of our local mp Bridget Philipson who is appealing to NHS England on Jacobs behalf

We are trying to raise £20,000 this is the cost of the operation privately and we are giving ourselves 12 months to hopefully get this target.

We would appreciate and be so grateful for any donations towards this operation.

Jacob's family are fundraising with the Bradley Lowery Foundation, all funds going through this JG page, are restricted for Jacob's operation. If Jacob no longer needs to use the funds, the money will be used to support other children with life limiting or life changing condtions.