A MILFORD Haven family's 3,000-mile journey to access life-changing surgery for their little girl has captured hearts across the Atlantic.

Ten-year-old Megan Sadler and her family were met by a surprise welcome party of more than 30 local Rotary members when they landed at Philadelphia International Airport on Monday.

An aspiring gymnast, Megan has scoliosis (curvature of the spine) and has to wear a restrictive back brace 23 hours a day.

Thanks to the incredible fundraising efforts of people across Pembrokeshire, she and her family have been able to travel to America, where she has been offered free vertebral body tethering (VBT) surgery at the Shriners Children's Hospital.

Megan's shocked mum Laura told ABC News: "We knew people were meeting us but we didn’t expect this whatsoever."

After a warm welcome to 'the city of brotherly love', Rotary members then helped Megan and family to their hotel, and handed over toys, gifts and food to help them settle in.

Ted Trevorrow, of Longwood Rotary Club, said he was contacted by south Wales district governor Steven Jenkins, asking if Rotary members in the city could help support the family.

“I said sure, we’re Rotary! We’re extraordinary! What can we do to help?" he said.

"That’s what we’re here for, when there’s a need we try to fill it.

"Our idea is to make other people’s lives a little bit better when we can."

Megan has now been assessed by clinicians, and has been told she is suitable for surgery, which is not available in the UK.

The family is hopeful they will be able to return to America in May or June for the operation.

So far, more than £7,000 has been raised to help Megan's family afford to travel to and from America.

This has been boosted by £1,000 from Milford Haven Rotary Club, and around £1,500 from Milford Haven Gymnastics Club - where Megan is a member - and friends of the club.

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