Please help my friend James get the surgery he urgently needs to restore his health, independence, and ability to work.

He’s one of the kindest, most hard-working people you could meet — a devoted father of three and a professional musician who has spent his life bringing joy to others through his characterful playing and unstoppable energy. Now, after months of pain and uncertainty, he needs our help to get fully back on his feet.

In July this year, James was rushed to hospital after suddenly becoming seriously unwell. What began as vague discomfort quickly turned into a body-wide infection that left his heart and kidneys under serious strain. Scans revealed a large, deep abscess near his tailbone — which had likely been developing silently for weeks — and surgeons acted fast, performing an emergency operation and fitting a drainage device that quite literally saved his life. The drainage device is still fitted.

Although the immediate crisis passed, James’s struggle is far from over. Months later, he is still living with an open, draining wound in an extremely sensitive area, coping with daily pain, physical limitations, and wound management. Despite repeated NHS consultations and follow-up appointments, progress has been slow, and there’s still no clear end in sight.

The current NHS route to full surgical resolution could involve up to four separate operations spread across 12–18 months, each with long recovery periods in between. He has not yet even been told when the first of these surgeries might take place.

During that time, his ability to work and support his family will remain greatly limited. There is, however, a real chance to change this. A private specialist has confirmed that James is a suitable candidate for a minimally invasive laser procedure (FiLAC) that could completely resolve the problem within just five days. This modern treatment offers a much faster recovery, minimal discomfort, and a far higher success rate than traditional surgery — but it’s only available privately.

We’re trying to raise £4,000 to cover the cost of this surgery, consultation fees, and essential aftercare. Without it, James could be facing another 1-2 years of pain, uncertainty, and lost work opportunities.

As a professional musician, James’s work depends on energy, focus, and mobility — all of which have been drastically affected. Some days he stands up from his chair within an orchestra to find his clothes soaked and stuck to the seat; other days, he can barely walk without pain or irritation. Yet he continues to do everything he can to provide for his family and remain positive, even under huge physical strain.

Every donation — no matter the amount — will bring James one step closer to a life free from pain, embarrassment, and uncertainty. Your support will help him heal, return to full-time work, and get back to doing what he does best: performing, providing for his children, and living life fully again.

Thank you so much for reading, sharing, and donating. Your kindness and generosity will make a real and lasting difference in James’s life.