The family of a cancer-stricken toddler have been given cause to celebrate after a successful operation.

Three-year-old Rebecca McKenna, of Erskine, was diagnosed in January with stage four neuroblastoma, a rare and aggressive disease with a high mortality rate.

Her parents launched a fundraising campaign so they could take her to America for a drug trial that could reduce her chances of a relapse.

Earlier this month, she was admitted to hospital for treatment and last week underwent surgery.

In an update on the campaign’s Facebook page, Rebecca’s father Chris McKenna said: “On Thursday Rebecca went to surgery to get the main tumour removed.

Glasgow Times:

“She went to theatre at 10.45am. The surgeon told us it would be an operation that lasts eight to 10 hours.”

Four hours later, the surgeon phoned to say the operation had been a success.

Chris said: “After one night in intensive care she was moved to a recovery ward. We have been in hospital nine days now and I’m glad to say Rebecca is getting home today, after being told the recovery period for this operation was two weeks in hospital.”

The latest news is a promising development for Rebecca on her long road to receive potentially life-saving treatment.

To be eligible for the trial in America, Rebecca must be cancer free for 120 days, which makes her current treatment and recovery of critical importance.

Additionally, there is the steep costs the family will have to pay for her specialist care in the States. The fundraising campaign recently passed the halfway mark towards its £140,000 goal.

Chris said: “Rebecca surprises us every day. We as parents and a family are so proud of our wee girl. Thanks everyone for your continued support.”

To support Rebecca, who will be four on July 10, follow Raise For Rebecca on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

Donations can be made to the JustGiving page: www.justgiving.com/crowd funding/RaiseforRebecca