A TODDLER has had to undergo major surgery after being diagnosed with a rare condition which meant she could not eat food.

When Poppy Nesbitt was being weaned onto solids at six months, her parents found she could not swallow which would often lead to fits of choking, retching or vomiting.

It was 11 months before Poppy was diagnosed with congenital esophageal stricture (CES) — a condition which causes the narrowing of her food pipe.

The youngster, who is now aged three, had to undergo major surgery in May 2017 and still requires further tests and procedures in the future.

Her parents Helen and Colin Nesbitt, who live in Farnworth, are organising a major charity night in Bury, where much of their extended family live.

They are fundraising for Alder Hey Children's Hospital, where Poppy received treatment, and Ronald McDonald House — a 'lifeline' charity that provided them with 'home from home' accommodation.

Mum Helen Nesbitt, who attended St Monica's RC High School in Prestwich, said: "We knew early on that there was something wrong but there was nothing we could do.

"Poppy was unable to eat solids until she was two-and-a-half. She could only eat pureed foods otherwise she would choke.

"She could not join in at nursery, she could not eat at children's parties, or enjoy a Christmas dinner.

"We had to constantly monitor it.

"Even now, post-surgery, she is sick a lot and she screams in pain."

Parents received Poppy's diagnosis in October 2016.

The following May their little girl underwent surgery at Ronald McDonald House. This was followed by numerous visits to Alder Hey for tests and seven gastroscopy (OGD dilatation) procedures to stretch her gullet.

Poppy, who attends Ladybirds Nursery in The Haulgh, will need further surgery in the future.

Mrs Nesbitt said: "Poppy had toast for the first time at two-and-a-half. She absolutely loves toast with butter. She loves pasta, pizza. It is such a delight that she can eat.

"It is something that is taken for granted until you can't.

"We want to give something back to the staff who provided their care. Ronald McDonald House was like a lifeline for us.

"My husband could be at the bedside. It is an amazing place and it meant we didn't have to pay for a hotel every night through Poppy's surgery.

"The care we received at the hospital was fantastic. I promised when we left that I would repay them in some way.

"These causes are very close to our hearts.

"We really hope that by sharing Poppy's story we can raise as much money as possible."

The charity night will be held at Elton Liberal Club on March 1 from 7pm, featuring a quiz, hotpot supper, DJ, raffle and auction.

Mrs Nesbitt said: "We really want this event to be a success. We're hoping to sell 170 tickets. We'd really like to raise £5,000.

"I'm trying to secure prizes for the raffle so if there are any companies who can help us, we would really really value their support."

Tickets, at £12.50 each, can be purchased by emailing helen.almond76@icloud.com.