In October 2012 at 4 months old, Archie was diagnosed with Multi-Focal Diffused Cystic Encephalomalacia. A rare neurological disorder with a very poor prognosis. His MRI report showed that his head was full of cysts, with over 90% brain damage. He was diagnosed with severe spastic quadriplegic cerebral palsy, epilepsy, and cortical vision impairment.
Archie’s diagnosis is simply that. A diagnosis. We figured out pretty quickly that Archie’s future was in our hands. We have been educating ourselves and working so hard with Archie’s alternative therapy...as we believe in him 100%.
Two years ago we came across a therapy called ABR, which stands for Advanced Biochemical Rehabilitation. We began the training and the changes we have seen in Archie is incredible. ABR is a gentle, home based, hands on treatment, performed by parents that does NOT use drugs, surgery, Botox or forceful techniques. It is a unique rehabilitation approach for children and young adults with cerebral palsy that brings predictable recovery of the muscular/ skeletal structure and motor functions.
We learned how important it was and is to build Archie’s respiratory system and digestive system before we even begin to get him walking. How can you expect a child to walk in a walker when they can't even hold their head up? ABR starts from basics, it begins with increasing the internal strength and volume of the child with cerebral palsy so significantly that normal motor functions recover spontaneously.
The unfortunate truth is that much of what would revolutionise a disabled child's life is simply beyond what the NHS are able to provide.
Since Archie began ABR, we have attended 6 training sessions and during this time we have seen Archie make some wonderful progress. The cost is significant and again we must turn to fundraising in order to allow Archie this opportunity.
Danny, Richard & Tom are doing a great job to raise awareness and supporting Archie!
Smiles and love always
Archie Leith