Abi's flying as kind Rod funds USA treatment

After meeting at a charity auction on Thursday, the singing legend offered to dig deep and help Abi Evans, 20, who has Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and is unable to walk.

- Justin Stoneman

BIG-HEARTED rocker Sir Rod Stewart is paying for a young fan to receive pioneering treatment in the US for a rare genetic disorder.

After catching Rod’s eye, he came over to chat. Abi, who is training with the Red Arrows to be a pilot, said: “Rod was rushing through the room and I caught his gaze. He came over and I introduced myself.

“I told him I’ve got a rare condition. He immediately wanted to hear more. I explained all about Ehlers-Danlos, that it was degenerative, that I have a paralysed stomach and nerve damage in my legs which means I can’t walk, but there was a possibility of treatment abroad that could make me better.”

That’s when Rod broke the news that could change Abi’s life.

“He is sending me to get stem cell treatment in America,” Abi said. “And more than that he is going to help in a number of other ways.