A FUNDRAISER is dedicating 2013 to Newport boy Leo Dixon and has set himself the target of raising £10,000 towards an operation to help the youngster to walk.

  Mark Fredrickson has spent the past few years raising around £7,000 for charities including Macmillan and Latch through events including a sponsored walk and fun day, a body waxing event and a motorbike convoy.

  But now after being contacted by the family of Leo, Mr Fredrickson has decided to continue his fundraising in 2013 but this time he will dedicate all the funds to Leo.

  The Argus reported how the family of Leo are hoping to raise £60,000 so that the two-year-old, who suffers from cerebral palsy and spastic diplegia, can undergo surgery in America to help him walk.

The family have so far reached around £12,000, which has allowed Leo to start undergoing intense therapy sessions in Scotland to help him with his movement prior to the operation.

  By completing these sessions, Leo is now able to do simple things he had difficulty with before including sitting on a stool and crossing his legs.

  But after being approached by Leo’s mum, Kate, Mr Fredrickson is now keen to help the family get even closer to that final fundraising target.

  Mr Fredrickson is currently planning events throughout 2013 including a bungee jump in March and an outdoor concert in the summer time.

  He is also organising a charity football match which will include a team of professional boxers.

Mr Fredrickson said: “When I met Leo and his family, I just really wanted to help them. I want to dedicate 2013 to raising funds for Leo.”

  Mrs Dixon said: “It is great to have Mark helping us. It takes a bit of pressure off us and just helps make things easier.”

  Mr Fredrickson has also been working with University of Wales, Newport student Sam Gummer, 19, to make a film about his recent fundraising which it is hoped will be released soon.

  To help Mr Fredrickson with his fundraising contact him on 07557 446 927