Everyone wants to help Jordan

As a result, he could soon be mobile.

Like any boy, Jordan Whitewood-Neal's dearest wish was for a bike. But his physical condition means that it would have to be no ordinary bike but something built around his individual needs. It could cost more than 700.

Engineers are now wrestling with the technical problems involved.

The Observer told Jordan's story on April 16 - a day before members of Life Style gym in Western Road dry-rowed the equivalent of the London Marathon to raise money for the Proteus Syndrome Foundation.

Jordan's mother, Tracey Whitewood-Neal is national chairman of the support organisation for parents of children with the cruel condition which causes parts of their body to grow at an abnormal rate.

But the family also needs to fund-raise to help Jordan cope with his problems. Now Tracey and Dean have written to the Observer. The paper is the only means she and her husband can thank donors who, modestly, left no address.

Tracey says: "I wanted to write and tell you about the fantastic response we have had to the stories you have published in your paper about my son Jordan, who has Proteus syndrome.

"We have been touched by the number of people who have telephoned and sent donations. Many of these people have not provided addresses for me to thank them personally. One disabled gentleman came all the way to our house on his scooter, with a cheque for Jordan, as well as models and chocolates.

"Grandmothers have sent Jordan money for ice creams and spending money in America.

"Would it be possible to thank these kind and generous people through your paper? So many want to help pay for Jordan's bike and one lady, who wishes to remain anonymous wants to pay the full amount for the bike. Readers who have already sent in donations are assured that these have been banked in Jordan's appeal fund for his future welfare."

Tracey and Dean have also sent a photo of Jordan with a bike similar to the one he hopes to have (see above)."Jordan's needs in respect of hand pedals, leg rests etc are quite complicated and engineers have been called in to try and solve the problems.

"Thanks again and we are so grateful to everyone."