13-year-old Diego, a clever and outgoing young man, lives with Polyneuropathy Hereditary Axonal Motor – Dorsolumbal Neuromuscular Scoliosis. The Scoliosis is the result of a gene mutation that causes severe muscular weakness and atrophy. Diego resides with his mother and brother in the town of Jerico- Antioquia, Columbia and has experienced low access to educational opportunities and multiple barriers to health services.
To improve and facilitate Diego’s mobility, independence and access to social, medical and educational inclusion, it was vital he be fitted with a special pediatric neurological wheelchair, including a worktable. With the support of Variety donors and local Occupational Therapists, Variety – the Children’s Charity’s International Children’s Fund granted Diego and his family the imperative wheelchair he so badly needed.
The positive impact on children like Diego cannot be overstated.
The wheelchair cost several thousand dollars but the smile on Diego’s face is priceless.