Source: Sundaymail

A BLIND girl hopes to be able to see for the first time following a pioneering operation in China.

Courtney Ann Young, nine, was born without sight due to a rare condition.

Her mum Annette is trying to raise £30,000 for the trip to China for revolutionary stem cell treatment.

The Ayrshire schoolgirl said: "I say my prayers every single night and ask to be able to see how pretty my mummy really is.

"I can feel her face but I want more than anything in the world to see her smile."

Courtney Ann has been told there is nothing UK doctors can do to treat her Septo-Optic Dysplasia (SOD), which prevents optic nerves developing.

Mum Annette, 30, said: "I want her to have every chance of a normal life and hope people will find it in their hearts to help us raise the £30,000.

"When we heard what scientists in China had achieved, I knew we had to do everything we can to give Courtney Ann that chance." Medics at US firm Beike Biotechnology, in Quingda, announced "miracle results" three months ago in the treatment of a three-year-old Belfast girl.

An amazing TV documentary showed Dakota Clarke seeing for the first time.

Mum-of-six Annette said: "I want the same chance for Courtney Ann. She's such a clever little girl, it breaks my heart that she has to go everywhere with a white cane.

"She just wants to be like every other little girl, to be able to run and play, and I'm prepared to do everything I can to give her that opportunity."

Sod also affects growth and weight. Model Jordan's son Harvey, eight, was born with the condition.