The family of a 19-year-old who was unable to eat or drink say the "future is positive" after she underwent an operation.

The Howe family from South Oxhey were crowdfunding for Ellie who was diagnosed with intestinal failure when she was aged 17.

It left Ellie in and out of hospital, unable to eat or drink properly for more than a year, and vomiting up to 30 times a day.

Harrow Times:

Ellie has been in and out of hospital and was being fed through a feeding tube

Wellwishers helped raise £15,000 for Ellie and on June 21 she had gastrojejunostomy surgery - where total costs came to £35,000.

But according to Ellie's mother Debbie, the operation has given her daughter a new lease of life.

Debbie said: "At the moment, everything is positive. Ellie has a feeding tube still but she can now eat small amounts of proper food. It's a positive sign. Her vomiting has reduced from 30 times a day to sometimes none at all. For us a family, it is fantastic to think she has hope, maybe she can have a life like everyone else. We're hoping she can go out, go to a restaurant, maybe eventually be able to go on holiday.

"We know Ellie's condition could deteriorate again. We're going one day at a time but we are cautiously optimistic."

Debbie has thanked everyone who has supported Ellie, and her family.

She added: "We are so grateful for all the help. It is really humbling.

"But we have to remember there are other young people in this situation and it is important to keep raising awareness."

Debbie also thanked Caroline Hensman, owner of Definition hair salon in Carpenders Park, who she says helped push her family to talk about the Ellie's situation.

A 12-hour fundraiser through the night cutting hair at Caroline's salon raised £1,376.50.

Caroline said: "I'm actually visiting Ellie to do her hair tomorrow. I feel really pleased and it is a lovely feeling to know we played a part. I'm overwhelmed how everyone played a part."