Mihdi Brock, the child who has battled spinal deformity all his life, is beginning to talk, says proud father Marvin.

Mihdi, now four and a half, nearly died three times after being born with a spinal deformity, serious circulation problems and fluid on the brain.

Mihdi is now undergoing treatment in California and was recently fitted with a brace.

If that does not work he may have to go to China for treatment which costs up to $300,000 and involves tying each vertebra without using metal rods.

Mr. Brock said he is planning to visit Bermuda again to seek further sponsors.

A regimen of herbs and exercise, including hanging from chin-up bars and foot massage, has helped improve Mihdi's speech which had been a problem as the fluid on his brain damaged his ability to talk.

Mr. Brock said: “Mihdi is beginning to hold intelligible conversation with people.

Comments from many who see him is that he appears to be like any normal four-year-old.”

Donations can be sent to the Mihdi Brock fund at the Bank of Bermuda, Six Front Street, Hamilton, HM11. The account number is 70123372.