A LITTLE girl has a better future ahead of her after life-changing treatment, thanks to a military association.

Eleven-month-old Chloe Poole was born with a rare skull condition, meaning she had to wear a special helmet for up to 23 hours a day — or she could have suffered from misaligned eyes, ears or jaw.

But, initially, the corrective treatment looked as if it could be too much for her young parents, Senior Aircraftsman Darren Poole and wife, Samantha, who were based at RAF Benson.

However, help was at hand when members of the Wantage branch of the Royal Air Forces Association heard about the family’s predicament and gave the couple £1,100 to help meet the cost of the treatment.

SAC Poole, 24, said: “The treatment was fantastic. It worked unbelievably. Now she is happy and active and living a normal life.

“It did not bother her at all having the helmet on. She was as good as gold with it.”

He said: “We were struggling to pay for the treatment and any amount would have relieved so much pressure off us. We got married in 2009 which was expensive and then we had a baby and having to pay for treatment on top of that, it was very hard.

“We were struggling to make ends meet so it made a huge difference.”

Chloe was diagnosed with flat-head syndrome at four months old after a check-up visit from a health visitor.

As well as wearing the helment over four months from anything from just a few hours a day up to 23, Chloe needed trips to London for monitoring and alterations.

RAFA branch welfare officer Derrick Cain said: “It was nice to think the branch could do something to help somebody like that.

“They were worried about their little girl and how she would grow up.”

He said: “I hope we have made a difference and it is good to know that the branch can do something for serving members as well.”

The treatment cost a total of £1,950, with the family also receiving £800 from the RAF Benevolent Fund.

Mrs Poole, 21, said: “We would have managed but we would have got ourselves into a lot of debt. You would do anything for your child no matter the cost.”

Paul Hughesdon, director of welfare and policy for the RAF Benevolent Fund, said: “We were pleased to help the Poole family with some important costs during what was obviously a difficult time. Their story is typical of the kind of help we provide week in, week out to serving and former RAF personnel and their families in need.

“We believe it to be our duty as the RAF’s leading welfare charity and it is our pleasure to do so.”

SAC Poole left Raf Benson with his family last week for a new posting in Wales.