A CAMPAIGN to raise £60,000 to help a brave toddler walk is going from strength to strength – raising £13,000 in its first two months.

The Argus has reported on the bid to raise the funds to allow two-year-old Maisie Cooper, of Crosskeys, to undergo pioneering surgery in the United States to help her walk.

In its first month, £6,000 was raised to help the youngster, who was born 11 weeks early weighing 2lbs 14oz and diagnosed with spastic diplegia cerebral palsy a year later.

But with people still being touched by the brave youngster’s story, the funds are continuing to flood in.

The campaign was launched by Maisie’s parents Gareth and Hayley Cooper at the end of January to fund the life-changing operation which will decrease the tightness which the youngster currently suffers from in her muscles.

This would mean that with the help of intense physiotherapy, she may be able to walk unaided.

Events so far have included a charity night at Cross Keys RFC clubhouse which raised £1,100 as well as clairvoyant nights and a bag-packing event.

Personal donations have also been made including £1,700 from a family friend.

Future events include a bagpacking event at Tesco, Spytty, on March 30, as well as an 80s night, 70s disco parties and a three peak challenge.

Newport Gwent Dragons rugby players have also been supporting the cause by following the campaign on Twitter and donating items to auction.

This includes Andrew Coombs who has donated a Wales rugby shirt signed by the national rugby team.

Bidding for the shirt opens on March 27 and runs until April 1.

The minimum bid is £200. All bids should be e-mailed to gm.

cooper84@hotmail.co.uk For more information on the campaign and events visit stepstohope.co.uk