The family of a three-year-old boy whose brain has swelled to twice its normal size have made a desperate appeal for life-saving surgery.

Cao Pengwei was diagnosed with hydrocephalus - where fluids build up in the brain's chamber - when he was two.

Treatment to slow the swelling has not worked and he must now undergo an operation to drain the fluid from his brain.

Cao, whose head measures more than 80cms because of the condition, has had to leave hospital in Jiujiang City, in Xiushui County, twice already because his family could not afford the hospital bills.

Speaking through tears, mum Ding Meiling said it was heartbreaking to watch him suffer.

'I've been worn out by the treatment but I don't want to give up,' she said.

'I don't have any solution now. I hope people with kind hearts can help my son.'

One to two of every 1,000 babies are born with hydrocephalus, making it as common as Down’s syndrome, according to the Hydrocephalus Association.

Although shunts are permanent, they are prone to infection and blockage, which means patients may require several operations during their lifetime.

Most of those with by the condition have impaired mental and physical ability, although the effects can vary widely.

'Doctors suggested us to arrange the surgery, but we have no money,' his father said.

'We are desperately hoping someone could help our son.' Ding adds: 'We'll save him, no matter the cost.'

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Lord have mercy!

Blood of God

Hydrocephalus , seen many cases like this....The sunset eyes is characteristic....

Oh God!

tamuno jesu

Subhanallah.....