Durham helps brave Robbie Jones fight meningitis
Nov 1 2008 by Neil McKay, The Journal
A COMMUNITY is rallying forth to help a brave toddler struck down by the deadly brain bug meningitis.
Robbie Jones, aged two, from Bowburn, near Durham City, was rushed to hospital in July.
As a result of the meningitis, doctors had to amputate his legs, the right, above the knee, and the left, below. Robbie also lost the ends of his fingers.
But the youngster is refusing to let his disabilities hamper him, as he crawls energetically around the floor in pursuit of his four-year-old sister Abbie.
And his parents, Wayne and Jill, of Millford Way, Bowburn, have been overwhelmed by the support of people from Durham and surrounding areas.
Yesterday, Jill was presented with a cheque for s16,000 raised by members at Ramside Hall Hotel golf club, Durham, with more than a little help from Sunderland footballer Dwight Yorke.
Family friend Gordon Dance, from East Rainton, Houghton-le-Spring, who organised the event explained: We had a golfing tournament last Saturday at Ramside Hall followed by a social evening, to which Dwight turned up after helping Sunderland to beat Newcastle in the Wear/Tyne derby.
His parents had come over to visit from Trinidad, but he still made the time to put in an appearance, and gave a considerable donation to the fund for Robbie.
Last night, another function was held for Robbie in the Daleside Arms pub at Croxdale, near Durham, while today a charity football match is taking place in his home village.
Robbie will soon try out prosthetic legs at Newcastles Freeman Hospital, and a permanent set of legs, when he stops growing, could cost more than s20,000.
Jill, 28, said: We are overwhelmed by the help and support we have received from people in this area. We didnt know we had so many friends.
Robbie is very brave and tries not to let his disabilities get in the way.
All money raised will be used to secure his future.
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