THE heart-wrenching story of his fight for survival has been an inspiration to many.

Little Joel Bearder, who suffers from a serious heart condition, has inspired thousands of pounds worth of fundraising to help other sick children like him.

And despite being given the devastating news that the three-year-old’s condition has deteriorated, his family and friends are determined to continue their charity efforts.

Upcoming events, including a massive charity ball, aim to double the £4,500 already raised for the Children’s Heart Surgery Fund at Leeds General Infirmary, where Joel has treatment.

The Linthwaite youngster’s family also hope to raise more awareness of heart defects, which babies have more chance of developing than any other defect.

Joel appeared healthy when he was born, but as his parents Gaynor and Antony were preparing to take him home medics detected a heart problem.

A heart scan at Leeds General Infirmary revealed that his aortic valve was too narrow, obstructing his blood flow.

Further complications saw him returned to the hospital several times during his first year.

Joel’s parents then faced further heartache last June, when doctors told them he faced up to four risky operations to help his heart as he grows.

But last week tests revealed that the little boy’s heart has continued to weaken and he may need his first round of open heart surgery as soon as later this year.

Mum Gaynor said: “Joel has been going downhill and the last three months have been really difficult.

“He’s picked up every infection going and a heart scan last Friday showed more wear and tear to his heart. His aortic valve is thinner than it was and the blood isn’t flowing through the heart properly.

“This means his heart is having to work much harder and this is leaving him breathless and getting tired very quickly.”

A major heart review in July will determine if Joel – who has a seven-year-old brother named Lucas – needs to have his first eight-hour operation to replace the aortic valve before the end of this year.

Gaynor said: “He’s going to need three to four lots of open heart surgery and its absolutely terrifying to think about as it involves stopping his heart.

“But we have to keep positive that he will come out of this fine.

“He’s such a brave, funny and smart little boy and always has a smile for everyone.

“He nearly died on three separate occasions and shouldn’t be here. But he’s a little fighter, has refused to give up and we hope he continues to prove the doctors wrong.”

Joel turns four in July and his family are planning a trip to Disneyland Paris to see his favourite character Mickey Mouse.

His parents are also being spurred on by the generosity of family and friends who are continuing to plan and support fundraising events for the heart surgery fund.

On June 18 their neighbour Chris Green is taking on the challenge of a 15,000 foot skydive at Hibaldstow Airfield in North Lincolnshire.

His wife Vicki has also helped Gaynor organise the Have A Heart charity ball, which takes place on May 6.

The event will include entertainment, a three-course meal, raffle and auction and 160 tickets have already been sold.

Children at Joel’s school Linthwaite Clough are also helping by making the Children’s Heart Surgery Fund their charity of the year.

Four children at the school, including Joel’s friend Ben Pogson, have fought against heart problems and been helped by staff at the hospital.

Gaynor said: “If it wasn’t for the heart team at Leeds Joel would not be here and it’s a fantastic charity.

“Organising events like the ball has given us something positive to focus on and the support we’ve had from the community has been heartwarming and overwhelming.

“I think people have been really amazed by how tough Joel is. It’s also important to raise awareness of congenital heart defects as there is more chance of babies developing this than any other defect.”

To support the charity skydive visit the webpage:

www.justgiving.com/ChrisGreen.

To buy tickets for the ball or donate prizes call Gaynor on 07908 008181.