BOLTON residents are backing a campaign to save a teenage girl denied a heart and lung transplant because she suffers from Down's Syndrome.

Townsfolk are busy fund-raising for Joanne Harris, aged 15, who needs £250,000 to pay for the life-saving transplant in America after British doctors refused to perform the operation.

And today Joanne's mum Marion, who used to work in Bolton, but now lives in Shrewsbury, said she could not believe the help she was getting from the town.

"Bolton people have been incredible," she said. "Everyone helping out is giving my child the chance of life."

Several residents started raising cash after Bolton's Flo McBrien, whose own daughter has Down's Syndrome, heard of Joanne's plight through national newspapers.

The schoolgirl, who suffers from a hole in heart, could die within five years unless a transplant is performed.

Doctors in Britain refuse to treat Joanne on medical grounds claiming Down's Syndrome children are at risk from drugs which help ensure the operation is successful.

But Mrs Harris, aged 50, who used to work for Janet Fraser catalogue company in Bolton, says their decision is nothing more than discrimination which will eventually cost Joanne her life.

Surgeons in America, who recently successfully performed a heart and lung transplant on a 35-year-old woman with Down's Syndrome, have promised to carry out the operation if Joanne can meet the £250,000 cost.

Collections have so far raised £30,000, but Mrs McBrien and her team in Bolton hope to boost the appeal further by holding a fund-raising entertainment evening at Derby Ward Labour Club, Bolton, on Tuesday, April 7.

Tickets cost £3 for the event which includes a singer and comedian. Mrs Harris and Joanne will also attend.

Mrs McBrien, who is also appealing for donations from residents and businesses, said: "It's disgusting that Joanne is treated like this just because she's got Down's Syndrome.

"Anyone is at risk from a transplant and although it is true that someone with Down's Syndrome needs to be monitored more closely, it is no reason to deny surgery."

Call 577897 or 399756 if you would like to buy a ticket or make a donation.

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