A brave four-year-old who underwent two major heart operations in one week is set to raise cash for the charity that supported him and his family.

Mason Cotterill has endured more in his four years than most, battling heart conditions that resulted in two major operations just this month alone.

The youngster, of Argyle Street, was found to have Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD) — a small hole between the lower pumping chambers of his heart when he was just ten weeks old.

His first procedure repaired the ventricular septal defect (VSD), closing the small hole between the lower pumping chambers of his heart. Surgeons also removed an extra muscle bundle inside the right ventricle and took away a thin membrane beneath the aortic valve — all steps taken to protect his heart and support its health long into the future.

Brave little Mason underwent two major heart operations within the space of just one week.

placeholder image — Brave little Mason underwent two major heart operations within the space of just one week.

After his first operation, doctors were hopeful that Mason’s heart rhythm would return to normal naturally — but sadly, this did not happen. Just one week later, Mason required a second operation, where doctors fitted a permanent dual-chamber pacemaker.

Proud Dad Danny Cotterill said: “It hasn’t been easy for Mason. Right now, he’s finding it hard to come to terms with the fact he can’t do so many of the things he was enjoying just a month ago. Things as simple as jumping on the trampoline, running around and playing freely with his cousins, going back to nursery for those final few weeks before the summer holidays, or even splashing about in the paddling pool in this 30°C heat are all off the table for now.

"He has to be so careful avoiding any knocks or injuries, keeping his scars dry, and making sure his incisions stay safe and don’t reopen or risk infection.

“But even through this frustration and disappointment, he’s showing such strength. He is slowly but surely getting there, healing bit by bit, and we can already see glimpses of that crazy, energetic little boy we all know and love starting to return.”

Mason is fundraising for HeartLink Children’s Charity, whose support has meant so much to him and his family.

Mason also had to contend with an infection following the surgeries but is now recovering well and has his sights set on raising money for Heart Link who supported him and his family throughout his time in hospital.

Mason asked his grandmother to help him organise the event that will take place at The Forest Town Arena, who have given the venue free of charge, on September 13 between 1pm and 5pm. The fun filled day will feature stalls, music, fun for all ages and food.

Dad Danny added: “The fact that even while he’s still recovering and adjusting to all these changes, he still wants to raise money to say thank you to Heart Link.

“The charity was our lifeline during our three-week hospital stay, and seeing him want to help them help others makes us beyond proud. He truly is amazing.”

Heart Link, was originally formed as a support group for parents and families who have a child suffering from a heart defect. Since 1981 the charity has collected over £4 million pounds to help families.

Mason also has a fundraising page where people can donate.