News and events

BIRMINGHAM EVENING MAIL Aug 21 2006
By Jane Tyler

BRAVE Matthew de Redman is going on a “pilgrimage” to raise money for his local church – despite having a serious heart condition.

The 11-year-old, who needs a heart valve replacement operation, will travel by public transport to Evesham on a holy mission.

All the money raised will go towards Our Lady and St Rose, in Weoley Castle.

The church is fund-raising to restore its building and pay off its debts so it can be consecrated.

Matthew, a pupil at Bishop Challoner School, in Kings Heath, is a patient at Birmingham Children’s Hospital.

He is waiting for a valve replacement and a tear and several holes in his heart to be repaired. The condition was diagnosed when he was six and is currently controlled by medication.

Matthew’s parents Adrian, aged 47, and Paula, 37, from Weoley Castle Road, who have another son Joshua, seven, said he needs to have the operation by the time he is 15.

Adrian, an assistant manager at a care home for dementia sufferers, said: “He has to be careful and can’t do stuff like cross country, but apart from that he's a normal healthy active little boy.”

His mum Paula, aged 37, has recently been treated for four tumours on her kidney.
Matthew said: “I want to do my bit to help. Mum has been ill recently and everyone has helped us out - this is my way to say thanks and help the parish.”

The pilgrimage on September 30 will involve Matthew and his dad travelling by public transport to Evesham to attend Mass.

Please remember Matthew in your prayers! Thank you.