Max was diagnosed in Dec 2016, at only 9 weeks old! SMA is a genetically inherited condition that affects the muscles in the body. It is a degenerative, life limiting condition in babies diagnosed under 6 months rarely seeing their 2nd birthday.
In Jan 2017, thanks to hard work on the part of the doctors at Ninewells Hospital, Max became the 1st child in Scotland to start treatment, on an unlicensed basis, using a drug called Nusinersen. This treatment involves 4 injections to the spine in the 1st 2 months then 1 every 4 months. Quite an ordeal for such a young baby and, of course, his parents Elaine and Stuart and big sister Beth.
Although it's not always straight forward, Max's treatment is going well and he is starting to shows signs of improvement almost immediately - stronger muscles leading to increased movement and control and improved coordination.
If u would like to read all about Max's journey go to https://maxsjourneyblog.wordpress.com/