FATHER-OF-TWO Martin Tomlinson says he has been ‘humbled’ by the support of the community in raising funds for life-changing surgery.

Martin, 34, who lives in Stocks Hill, requires an operation to help improve his quality of life after years of living with a rare condition named Elhers-Danlos Syndrome, which causes his neck to repeatedly dislocate.

It causes severe headaches, neck ache, dizziness, confusion, slurred speech, memory problems, chronic fatigue and excruciating limb pains.

Martin has been told by doctors that if he is not operated on soon, he may become paralysed.

The operation he needs, however, can only be done by a doctor in Barcelona and Martin appealed to the community through the Guardian in February, to help raise the £60,000 needed.

He has now reached the half way point in his target and has thanked everyone who has helped him so far.

Friends and family are still calling on the local community to help achieve the ambitious target.

Martin said: “I would love to say a big thanks to everyone who has helped and donated but there are just so many people to name individually. It’s very, very humbling. It’s amazing to see people will give when they don’t know you.”

Martin held a fundraising event at Winsford Conservative Club on March 10 and raised more than £2,500.

He was also given £1,000 from house builder Taylor Wimpey.

Stuart Craig, sales manager for Taylor Wimpey North West, said: “As soon as we heard about Martin’s fundraising target we knew we wanted to help. It’s times like this you realise how strong a community is and Winsford really has shown unbelievable support towards Martin and his family.

“We know all too well how important this sense of community is, which is why we try and support the causes close to our Spring Croft development in Winsford.

“We wish Martin, his wife, Gemma, and two children, Maisy and Seth all the best as they try and reach their target and hope the operation is the success they need it to be.”

Martin is set to fly to Barcelona on April 19 for surgery on April 24.

He still needs donations to help reach his target. To make a donation, visit helpmartinkeephishead.co.uk