The Haematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation treatment (HSCT) will hopefully transform Troy’s Multiple (MS) which has slowly eroded his quality of life over the past few years.

Troy will receive his treatment from Dr Dennis Federenko at Pirigov’s National Surgical Medical Centre in Moscow and will be one of eight Australians getting treatment at the centre.

“I just want to be able to get out of the wheelchair again and even if I can back to using a walking stick it will make a massive difference – at the moment I either sit here on the lounge or rely on Ainslie to get me into the wheelchair,’ Eccleston said.

“We are just so appreciative of all the work our friends have put in to help raise the funds, which will not only pay for the $45,000 treatment, but also air fares for a carer who will accompany with me to Russia and also living expenses for the carer while he is there.”

Ainslie said she was always confident they would reach their target.

“I was sure right from the start – so many people know Troy and he has so many friends and to get to the target with a week to go was great.

“We are so grateful to the countless numbers of people, including family, friends, local business, community organisations, members of the broader community and even total strangers who have supported us so far, the support has been overwhelming.

“Troy was always going to go to Russia – even if we had to beg, borrow or steal – but the pressure in now off and we can relax, knowing that everything is covered.”

Troy leaves for Russia on Sunday, and has pledged to donate any excess funds to MS Australia Illawarra Branch and The Petrea King Quest for Life Foundation.