A WORRIED mother has thanked people in Meirionnydd for helping her daughter have life-changing surgery.

Five-year-old Audriana is the daughter of Katy Furneaux, who grew up in Tywyn before moving to the USA when she was 16 to be with her father.

Although a “very independent and sassy girl”, Audriana suffers from several problems with her brain, including swelling and haemorrhages and has recently been diagnosed with hyperthyroidism in addition.

She desperately needs urgent medical treatment but, despite having health insurance, Audriana requires private care if she is going to receive timely attention to treat her condition.

Thanks to a raffle and bingo night held in Neuadd Pendre on 27 November by townspeple in Tywyn, the Furneaux family has managed to raise enough money to pay for Audriana’s first round of treatment which took place earlier this week.

Katy was proud of the spirit of her hometown.

“Thank you so much to everyone who arranged and helped out with the bingo fund-raiser in Tywyn,” she said.

“Thanks to all who donated prizes, and all who attended in support of raising money for Audriana’s medical treatment.

“Also special thanks to the anonymous donor who paid the fees for the fundraiser to be held.

“The fundraiser has raised donations of just over $1,500, You all are amazing!

“I could not be more proud of a small town community and how you all came together to help.”

Audriana’s medical bills are expected to cost approximately $5,000.

For more information, or to donate, visit tinyurl.com/ycq8sjvb