A KIND-hearted benefactor has turned a poorly seven-year-old’s life around – by donating the £1,913 he needs for a new walking frame.

Less than 24 hours after cerebral palsy sufferer Alex Mayo was featured in the Bury Times, an anonymous donor stepped forward to pay for the specialist equipment he needs.

Alex, who is unable to stand without support, also has chronic lung disease and receives oxygen to help him breathe.

The youngster uses a manual wheelchair for most day-to-day activities, but can walk with the help of a frame.

Alex was given a walking frame by charity Newlife Foundation two years ago, but when he outgrew it, it launched a fundraising drive for a new walker.

His mum Tracey, of Newcombe Road, Ramsbottom, said the whole family was “overwhelmed with gratitude” and are hoping Alex will receive his new frame in the next couple of months.

Tracey said: “We are incredibly grateful to the person who has paid for this equipment and would like to say a huge thank you to them. It is so generous and we are in awe.

“It just goes to show there absolutely are still good people out there in the world.

“The donation came through so quickly. It must have been the first thing this person did after reading the paper the day it was published.”

The youngster has his own walking frame at Millwood Special School in Radcliffe, but is unable to take it home as it does not fit on the bus.

Alex’s older sister, Jessica Moran, received more than 1,400 hits when she shared his story on Facebook and an extra £375 has been raised via a Just Giving account.

The money will be donated to Newlife Foundation to help other disabled and terminally-ill children in Lancashire.

Tracey said: “For Alex, a walking frame is his independence, it’s his legs. It’s what opens the world to him and allows him to walk.

“Alex is just seven so he wants to explore and do all the things he is capable off. It’s very important that he is able to walk on his own two feet. It also important for his long-term health and aids his breathing, strengthens his posture and prevents hip problems.”

Newlife chief executive officer Sheila Brown said: “We are very grateful for this donation from this wonderful anonymous donor.

"The walking frame will really change Alex’s life. It will bring huge smiles to the faces of Alex and his family.”

To donate, call the Newlife Foundation team on 0800 988 4640 or e-mail fundraise@newlifecharity.co.uk