LITTLE Nicole Chorley is already enjoying the newfound freedom she has been given thanks to two life-changing operations she has undergone.

Six-year-old Nicole, who lives in Westwood and goes to school in Trowbridge, had two operations at St Louis Children’s Hospital, in Missouri, on her spine, hamstrings and tendons last year.

Previously wheelchair bound, the pioneering surgery has now allowed her to walk and she has already enjoyed her first Christmas of being able to walk up and receive her presents from under the tree, as well as walking to Walwayne Court School for the first time.

Her parents, Tracy, 49, and Paul, 41, hope she will be able to walk independently this year if physiotherapy goes well.

She is having regular physio at the Royal United Hospital in Bath and from Trowbridge physio Steve Johnson.

The surgery she underwent was only possible thanks to a mammoth fundraising effort through the Nicole’s Goal appeal.

Mum Tracy said: “She’s doing so well and building her muscles. The main thing for her now is concentrating on her balance. It’s been a very emotional year.”

Tracy and her husband Paul are both pleased they set up Nicole’s Goal.

Paul said: “It was obviously a big decision, but we are so glad we started the fundraising and went to America.

“After the first few days following the operation we did wonder whether we had made the right decision, but to see her now shows it was right.”

The family said one of the big factors that helped get them through the difficult times at the St Louis Children’s Hospital where Nicole had her operation, was the support of the hospital and the other British families there.

“We’ve been constantly in touch with the other families,” said Tracy.

“It is amazing to see the difference these operations have made to the lives of so many. I just wish they’d carry it out over here, so many more could benefit.”