Ref. 29126-125TODDLER George Mitchell starts a gruelling course of chemotherapy next week in the hope of beating a cancerous brain tumour.

The boy's plight has touched the hearts of many at RAF Lyneham, where he lives with parents Fraser, 37, and Sophie, 30.

After doctors warned last May that the two-year-old might not live to see his 10th birthday, they quickly embarked on their own mercy mission.

D-day for them will come in 12 weeks' time when the chemotherapy sessions at Oxford's John Radcliffe Infirmary draw to an end.

If by that time no change has been noted they hope to fly George to the US for pioneering surgery not currently available in the UK.

So far, colleagues at the base where the couple both work, have raised almost £20,000 through sponsored events to make the trip possible.

The family has added £35,000 through selling their family car and emptying their savings account.

Mr Fraser, a flight navigator, said that they would stop at nothing to ensure that their son is given every chance of survival.

"At the moment it is best guesses from the health professionals and we have to live with that," he said.

"Nobody can tell us anything definite at the moment."

Because of George's age, doctors in the UK refuse to operate on the tumour, saying the risks are too great.

But radical advancements in cancer-beating technology in the US mean that surgery could be an option.

After reading of a Manchester girl with a similar condition who was helped by Dr Patrick Kelly of New York University Medical Center 10 years ago, the Mitchells set the ball rolling.

The doctor, an expert in the field of Volumetric Laser Stereotaxis, which uses computer technology to remove tumours, has provisionally agreed to operate.

But the treatment comes with a price tag of around £70,000.

Fundraising events so far have included a complete head shave by two colleagues of Mr Mitchell and a sponsored bike ride.

Now Mr Mitchell, who flew sorties aboard Nimrod spy planes during the 1990s, is planning a parachute jump later this year.

He said: "It's been heartbreaking. The past few months have drained us of energy but we are not going to give up.

"We do not want to see our son being operated on or seeing his hair fall out but it has to be done.

"It is reassuring to know that we have a back-up if the chemo-therapy does not work.

"The RAF has been brilliant.

"They could not have been more understanding.

"The Forces stick together and always throw their weight behind charities especially when it's one of their own."

Anyone who wants to make a fundraising donation can call Mr Mitchell on 07950 271067.

Alternatively to make a donation call into any bank and quote Lloyds TSB account number 4752989. The sort code is 30-98-41. Further information is available by visiting

Last month George showed his fighting spirit when he took on Swindon Town midfield stars Brian Howard and Sammy Igoe.

As a special treat the club invited the lad down to County Road, where he showed off some crafty skills.

A club shirt, signed by the squad, was also given to him, which will be auctioned off to help meet the fundraising target.

Kevin Shoesmith