A CALDICOT toddler has taken her first steps on her own following pioneering surgery almost three months ago.

Three-year Imogen Ashwell-Lewis became the first child in Wales to undergo pioneering surgery funded by the NHS to help her walk on her own.

Her mum Catherine Ashwell-Rice, 37, said the brave youngster is consistently walking around the house on her own without using her walker or sticks.

Ms Ashwell-Rice, of Lapwing Avenue, said: “She absolutely loves her new ability and still has her sights set on running.”

“Imogen’s walking a lot indoors but not much outside yet as she’s still working on her balance and building her confidence.”

She said Imogen is making good progress but still has to wear gaiters and splints on her legs.

“I still can't believe it's only been a year since our first fundraising event.”

“She is still doing therapy every day of the week including riding and swimming which she was chuffed to get back to.”

“She is so happy and her seven siblings are over the moon.

On Saturday Imogen was reunited with the Chepstow fire fighters who last year donated £150 towards the appeal to raise the £40,000 needed to pay for the surgery at Bristol Children’s Hospital by holding a charity car wash.

“It was lovely for her to see them again and thank them for helping the appeal.”

The four-hour procedure, known as selective dorsal rhizotomy (SDR) was performed at Bristol Royal Hospital for Children.

Imogen was born 11 weeks early and suffers from a debilitating nerve-muscle condition known as spastic diplegia cerebral palsy, which left her unable to walk on her own and relied on a specially-made wheelchair.

Ms Ashwell-Rice said Imogen will have to continue with very intensive physiotherapy for a long time to come and will also need to lead an active lifestyle for the rest of her life. The funds raised from the appeal are being used to pay for equipment and private physiotherapy sessions, which she currently has twice a week.