Those of you who are fortunate enough to know Millie will know that she is an incredibly talented baker who, at only 9 years old, is in high demand! She has decided to put her talents to good use and host a bake sale (and raffle) in July to help raise funds for the PANS/PANDAS charity.

Millie has suffered with the horrific symptoms of PANS/PANDAS since 5th September 2022 which has left her unable to attend school, meet with friends/family and unable to sleep in or even visit her own home for the most part.

The sudden onset of symptoms are as a result of a misdirected immune system (usually as the result of an infection) which then attacks a part of the brain called the basal ganglia. Antibiotics and other commonly used medicines could be the answer and stop some/all of the symptoms.

Most medical professionals have never heard of PANS/PANDAS. The few that have usually don’t know enough about it to help. This results in children being passed from pillar to post and referred to CAMHS as it is often misdiagnosed as mental health. Terrified parents/carers are forced to pay for private consultations/treatment from doctors around the UK and further afield.

PANS (Paediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome)

PANDAS (Paediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections)

An abrupt, acute, dramatic onset (usually within 24-48 hours) of obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) or severely restricted food intake along with two or more of the following symptoms which are not better explained by a known neurologic or medical disorder.

 Anxiety (heightened anxiety, separation anxiety, irrational fears, panic episodes)

 Tics

 Emotional lability and/or Depression

 Irritability, Aggression, and/or Severely Oppositional Behaviours

 Behavioural (Developmental) Regression (increase in temper tantrums, loss of age-appropriate language, clingy behaviour not related to anxiety).

 Sudden Deterioration in School Performance (due to difficulties with memory, concentration, hyperactivity, impulsivity, new deficits of visuospatial skills)

 Motor or Sensory Abnormalities (dysgraphia, clumsiness, tics, new sensory sensitivities to light, noise, smell, taste or texture).

 Insomnia and/or Sleep disturbances

 Enuresis and/or Urinary frequency

Millie wants to help the PANS/PANDAS charity raise awareness of these debilitating conditions.

All donations are gratefully appreciated x