Fundraiser for Jordan

A Bexhill man is organising a fundraising night for Jordan Whitewood-Neal who is recovering from double amputation.

Now 15, Jordan has a condition called Proteus Syndrome which causes overgrowth of body tissue - in his case, this is bone.

At the beginning of February he had his left leg amputated but is already looking to the future with the fitting of prosthetic limbs.

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The teenager has won over an army of supporters and friends because of his positive attitude and the way he copes with the condition, and this is Adam Taylor's inspiration.

Adam is planning an evening of music and fun at Bexhill Amateur Athletic Club on Little Common Road on Saturday March 20.

The evening starts at 7.30pm and is open to all - music will be provided by Dirty Scarlet, Dead Calm and Tonight We Fly, with an appearance also by John Cruttenden from Suspect, who will be playing on his own.

Adam, 27, said: "Jordan is doing well as far as I know - he might be out this week at some point.

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"It is obviously a lot to go through at such a young age but, as with everything he does, he fights it head on."

Adam got to know something of Jordan when he used to coach the 1066 Specials football club which his father Colin helps run. He also has in common with Jordan a love of Chelsea FC.

"I always said I would love to be able to help in some way...This is the only way I could think of doing something. I suppose I could do a marathon or something like that but I am not the sporty type. And this gets everybody together - everybody enjoys music.

"I think Jordan will be there, and his parents Dean and Tracey, and brother Kai.

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"It is just to raise money for everything they need to deal with it all as a family, for Jordan's recovery.

"He has gone through major life changing surgery - I want to do anything to help really."

He has 280 tickets which are now available to buy at a cost of 5 - to order contact him on [email protected].

The evening will include raffle and prizes donated by local businesses and organisations, such as a family ticket given by Sussex County Cricket Club, and a gift from Hastings Football Club.

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Adam commented: "There has been massive interest from people already - we are looking forward to it."

He added: "For me personally, there is a lot in life you take for granted and then you meet someone like Jordan who takes everything head-on, everything that's thrown at him, and you realise how lucky you are.

"He is an amazing lad."

Jordan had his left leg amputated on February 1 and spent a day and a half in intensive care. The operation went well with some adjustments to the right side - known as Forrest (Stump) - and amputation of the left leg above the knee. His parents Tracey and Dean reported that the surgeon was "pleased with the outcome" and on Jordan's blog said:

"Jordan is doing fantastically and may be discharged from hospital on Monday February 8.

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"He will go back to have stitches out in a week or so and will return for his casting (for his two new prosthetic limbs) on March 1. His rehab is due to start March 15 2010.

"He is really glad he had the other leg amputated and is eager to get going! Thanks to everyone for their cards, texts etc."

Keep up to date with Jordan at http://www.proteus-syndrome.org.uk/blog/category/jordans-blog/

Do you know Jordan? Leave your message of support below.

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