A fund-raiser tomorrow night could bring a man one step closer to walking again. Giovanni Wilson lost the use of his legs following an accident in Jamaica in 1997.

He's organised Giovanni's Over 30s Fundraising End of Summer Cruise with an eye on the $100,000 surgery that promises to change his life.

The Royal Gazette reported earlier this year how Mr. Wilson was a pillion passenger on a bike that was struck by a car on September 1, 1997 while he vacationed on the Caribbean isle.

In the years that followed, the former hotel employee's condition deteriorated from a limp to virtually no use of his legs.

Medical practitioners were unable to help for years until Bermudian specialist Elwood Fox discovered Mr. Wilson's spine was the cause.

Dr. Fox, who practices at the New England Rehabilitation Hospital of Portland, Maine and King Edward VII Memorial Hospital, is able to perform the necessary surgery for $100,000. Mr. Wilson has raised $10,000 towards that sum so far.

Tomorrow's party is being presented by Bodacious Creations and the Mid-Atlantic Boat & Sports Club. The MV Elizabeth will leave from Albuoy's Point at 9 p.m. and return at 1 a.m. Music will be by Prezidential Elite.

Tickets are $30 at the boat. They can be purchased for $20, in advance, from Neeka on 505-7608, Milique on 504-7185 and Giovanni on 333-1574. All proceeds go towards Giovanni's medical expenses.

For more information on Mr. Wilson's condition e-mail peaches@northrock.bm.