LEIGH'S little braveheart, Michael Gillespie, is this week undergoing vital tests at London's Great Ormond Street Children's Hospital.
And if he is assessed as suitable, the little fighter who has already battled through a trio of big ops, will go on the heart and lung transplant list to face his toughest test.
But the plucky nine-years-old was sent on his way with the good wishes of his Manchester United heroes.
After being contacted by Hope Carr Councillor Mark Hale, the club dispatched delighted Michael (pictured) a signed Alex Ferguson photograph, a selection of signed players' photographs, an official year book, the current official magazine, the United Review, but best of all two complimentary tickets to Old Trafford - and all their best.
A letter from Clare Nicholas in the manager's office said: "I was sorry to hear of Michael's health problems. Please let him know that he is in our thoughts and prayers."
Liverpool fan Mark said: "I felt it would be a nice gesture to contact United. My son Lewis is around Michael's age and I can imagine what the family is going through."
Christ Church School pupil Michael of Beech Drive, Leigh, has endured a lifetime of problems after being born with his heart the wrong way round.
He faced his first surgery at seven when he underwent a double switch at Birmingham Children's Hospital. Other operations followed including the fitting of a pacemaker, the repair of the pumping chamber and the fitting of a mechanical valve.
Mum Vivienne, dad David and big sister Joanne, 15, are now keeping their fingers crossed that everything will go well in the capital for their "walking miracle".
Vivienne said: "As usual Michael is taking everything thrown at him in his stride. He is so brave.
"We'd like to thank both Mark and United for their generous gesture. Michael's Manchester United and Arnold Schwarzenneger mad."
Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.
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