A MOTHER whose son underwent medical treatment over Christmas has soared to new heights to thank the ward that helped him.

Last December, eight-year-old Jacob Littlefair was admitted to ward L42 at Leeds General Infirmary for a colostomy procedure after suffering from bowel problems since birth.

Since then Jacob and his mother, Sarah Walker, set out to show their appreciation for the help they received and have been raising funds to help the ward buy new reclining bedside chairs for parents.

Over Easter, Jacob started his own appeal and collected 300 chocolate eggs to give to children on the ward.

While Mrs Walker challenged herself to skydive for her fundraising feat.

With a goal of £500, word of their appeal was spread throughout Northallerton and Thirsk and with businesses, restaurants and the public contributing to the appeal the pair have soared above their target with £3,000.

Last Sunday, August 25, Mrs Walker and two friends Helen and Murray Foster took to the sky at Bridlington in the final part of their fundraising challenge.

The Northern Echo:

"It was absolutely amazing," said Mrs Walker when she had two feet firmly back on earth.

"I was very nervous going up and watching Helen and Murray go out before me was terrifying but coming out and doing the skydive was fantastic.

"My very close friend Rachel was there to watch with Jacob, who was standing tall and proud with his Leeds Cares t-shirt on."

At the end of September Jacob and his mother will be returning to L42 to officially hand over the raised money.

Mrs Walker said: "Jacob's life has been changed massively since December. The charity that they did for him at LGI was absolutely fantastic.

“The nurses on the ward were amazing. I feel like they are my family.

"Me and Jake have got a happy ending but some families don't get that. But regardless all the nurses go over and beyond to help every family feel the way I have felt.

"I can't wait to hand over the money to the ward because I know how much it means to them."

For Jacob and his mother, returning to the ward with the money they raised marks a year of giving back to those that helped them throughout his treatment.

Mrs Walker added: "We have had loads of support from people and we have had loads of people wishing us good luck,

"Me and Jake would massively like to thank Helen and Murry from the bottom of our hearts for their total and utter support. We would have been lost without them.

"We would also like to thank the skydiving instructors Colin, Alex and Simon who were so good when we were doing it.

"And we would also like to give a massive shout out to everyone who donated to our appeal."

The cut-off point for donations is September 12 with sponsorship forms available at Go Diva salon and Le Grande Dame, in Thirsk.