THE dad of a youngster with cerebral palsy has vowed to “stay positive” as time runs out to get her life-changing surgery.

Parkstone six-year-old Skye Cowan has been given a date for a pioneering operation in America.

But her family must raise more than £20,000 by August 28 to ensure she is able to go.

In little over a week, generous Daily Echo readers have helped to raise thousands for the little girl, cutting the outstanding total from £31,000 to £27,000.

Skye’s dad Steve said: “It’s very, very hard.

“We’re so grateful to everyone who has helped us get this far. People have been so kind. But it’s just tough.

“I’ve wracked my brains about what else I can do to get the money for Skye. We have such a short time left open to us and it’s a real worry.”

QPR manager Harry Redknapp, who lives in Sandbanks, has lent his support to the cause, and footballer Joey Barton tweeted about Skye to his 2,269,306 followers.

“There are so many families out there just like us who are desperately trying to get their loved one this surgery,” Steve said.

“It’s such a difficult situation and it is a constant struggle. But we are going to stay positive.

“There’s such a lot of pressure on and we just need to keep going and keep smiling for Skye.”

Anyone wishing to donate can text SKYE52£1 to 70070 to give £1 to the appeal.

Cheques can also be sent to the Daily Echo offices in Richmond Hill, Bournemouth, made out to ‘Help fund Skye’.