A DAD and his fiancee have hit a milestone raising £10,000 of the £17,000 needed for a life-changing operation.

Matthew Pascoe, 26, from Colchester, was diagnosed with a condition called gastroparesis - a paralysed stomach - in April last year.

It means he is unable to digest food and is in constant pain.

Matt’s only hope of a more comfortable life is to have a gastric stimulator fitted but the device is not funded by NHS England.

Donations totalling £10,000 have been made in two weeks.

Matthew’s fiancee Amy Rushworth said: “Where do I start to find the words to thank the generosity of people at a time of need like ours. You have all gone above and beyond by donating and helping us share Matthew’s story.”The support we have received is amazing and we are extremely grateful.

“Thank you all so much again from the bottom of our hearts.”

Visit gofundme.com/ehws5u-life-changing-surgery.