The family of Ipswich youngster Mason Fountain are today setting out on a major fundraising drive as they continue their determined journey to see the size of the 10-year-old’s brain tumour reduce once and for all.

The Gusford Primary School pupil recently completed a gruelling 52 weeks of chemotherapy, but early indications suggest that while the tumour is stable, it has not shrunk.

Mason and his parents are now waiting on the results of an MRI scan to see what state it is in and if there is no improvement, it is hoped Mason will be able to get proton therapy in the USA.

Mum Shelley, 32, said: “Due to Mason relapsing twice already, me and my husband aren’t willing to sit back and wait for that to happen again.

“It is the next step for Mason because he has had two lots of chemo and the surgeon doesn’t want to do any more so this is his next step and the last chance to get rid of the tumour or to shrink it.

“He has gone through so much in over the last four years.”

Mason’s tumour was diagnosed in 2010 and since then it has taken its toll both physically and emotionally. The position of it has led to mobility problems and the loss of sight in one of his eyes.

The possibility of proton therapy, a form of radiotherapy which results in less damage to surrounding tissue, was discussed among the family and officials at Addenbrookes Hospital in Cambridgeshire.

If the MRI scan does not show the necessary improvement then Mason’s case will go before a panel which will decide whether or not to refer him for the treatment.

If this is successful then the family will relocate to America for about eight weeks.

The NHS will fund the proton therapy, but not living costs, flights for the rest of the family and other expenses. They are currently trying to raise £10,000or those costs.

Shelley added: “We are trying to keep him going. He is quite down at the moment and I think he just wants to get better and that is so hard, not being able to wave a magic wand and getting him better.

“Just to get that bit of positive news (proton therapy being successful) will have a big impact on Mason, It has been awful for him.”

If the target amount is exceeded, not reached, or can’t be used for any other reason, the money will go to the general funds of Tree of Hope to help other sick children.

If you would like to make a donation, visit www.justgiving.com/masonsprotonfund