We’ll hit the heights for our little warrior

ASOUTHPORT couple are preparing to trek up Mount Snowdon this weekend after learning the devastating news that their fivemonth-old son needs a liver transplant.

Jonathan and Danielle Roscoe, both 33, will be joined by little Otis and about 30 family members and friends this Saturday (May 19).

They aim to raise £2,500 for Children’s Liver Disease.

“Our little superstar Otis was just five weeks old when he was diagnosed with the rare and life-threatening disease, biliary atresia,” said Jonathan, a 33-year-old firefighter with Greater Manchester Fire Service, based at Wigan.

Danielle also works in Wigan, as an HR business partner for Wigan Council.

Jonathan said: “Otis had major surgery to improve his liver function when he was just a few weeks old but unfortunately this was not successful and we now know he will need a liver transplant.

“The past six months have been a rollercoaster of emotions for us and this is where Children’s Liver Disease Foundation have been invaluable.

“They have provided information on Otis’s condition which has been helpful, not only for us but for wider family and even our GP. They have been there with support for us and we know that this support will be available to Otis as he grows up.

“Sadly, there is still no cure for children’s liver disease and we have a long journey ahead of us.

“Throughout everything he has been through, Otis remains a super happy, cheery little warrior.

“We want to do everything we can for him and other children like him which is why we have persuaded our friends to tackle Snowdon with us this weekend!

“Danielle and I are pretty fit and enjoy walking and we thought this was something everyone could join in.”

Family, friends and colleagues have been so touched by Otis’s story that the Roscoes are already close to their £2,500 target.

Alison Taylor, chief executive of Children’s Liver Disease Foundation said: “CLDF is the only UK charity dedicated to fighting all childhood liver diseases, by providing information and emotional support, funds for research and a voice for all those affected. In order to do this however, we rely almost entirely on voluntary donations, so we are delighted to hear that Jonathan and Danielle have inspired people to join them on their Snowdon trek.

“Their fundraising is going brilliantly and will make a real difference to children like Otis around the UK.”

You can support the Roscoe family trek by going to www.justgiving. com/fundraising/otis-forcldf.