Fifteen-year-old Matthew Dugdale suffers from Scheuermann's Disease – a condition in which the normal roundback in the upper spine (a kyphosis) is increased. It starts in childhood and is thought to affect less than one percent of the population.

Matthew, who is studying for his GCSEs at Clitheroe Royal Grammar School, will have radical surgery in August at Alder Hey Children's Hospital, Liverpool, to correct the curvature. Two metal rods will be placed into his back to straighten his spine, along with a bone graft.

His recovery is expected to last up to three months after which he will hopefully be able to walk with almost perfect posture. Matthew is 5ft. 11in. tall, but after surgery will be over 6ft.

The teenager, who lives with his parents, Martyn and Annette, and 17-year-old sister, Lillie, in Downham Road, Chatburn, led a healthy life until he began experiencing backache and stiffness at the age of 13. It resulted in him developing a curved upper spine.

Matthew, who works part-time at Chatburn Post Office, thanked his family, friends, teachers and work colleagues for their support.



His mother, Annette, a midwife in the Ribble Valley and at Royal Blackburn Hospital, said: "We are so proud of Matthew and hope the major surgery is a success."

The teenager is currently channelling his energies into organising a fund-raising event to boost funds for the hospital and Chatburn Cricket Club. A food and drink night will be held at Chatburn Primary School on Monday, June 9th. The theme of the evening is fresh, local and organic food. Highlights during the event, which begins at 7 p.m., include a cookery demonstration, wine tasting and a butcher talking about organic produce. A raffle will also be held as well as an interactive display and information from the Soil Association.

Matthew is urging Ribble Valley people to turn out and support the event. He said: "I feel this fund-raiser is an ideal opportunity for everyone to get together and have a great night of fun, laughter, food and drink as well as supporting two good causes. Members of the cricket club are raising funds for a new clubhouse and I feel pleased I am able to help them in any way possible as well as the children's hospital where I will have the major surgery."

Tickets are £10 each and can be obtained by calling 07842 608793 or log on to www.chatburnevents.co.uk for more information.