Hi everyone,

Sarah and Dave here. Proud parents to our little boy Roman (and his big sister Isla), who has been dealt a tough hand in life. He was born with cerebral palsy which affects his ability to balance, stand and walk independently. It's called spastic diplegia cerebral palsy.

 

Currently our little mate gets around using a walker, or he crawls. As you can imagine, we'd do anything to help him walk, to change his life 100% for the better, which is where you lot come in.

 

If you can spare even a $1, it will go a long way towards helping us pay for a life changing surgery for Roman. The surgery needs to take place in St Louis, America, by renowned surgeon Dr TS Park. The surgery is called SDR, short for spinal dorsal rhizotomy, and neither Medicare or private health cover any costs. Basically it's spinal surgery where they cut the nerves to his legs that are affected by spasticity. In doing so they reduce his spasticity enough that he'll be able to let go of his trusty green walker and take his first solo steps. It's a moment we're anxiously hoping and praying for.

 

If you know our little boy, you'll know he'll be worth every cent raised! Thank you to everyone who is able to support us. We are so appreciative of you all, and can't wait to show off our little mate walking.

WHAT IS SPACTICITY?
Spasticity is abnormal muscle tightness due to prolonged muscle contraction. It is a symptom associated with damage to the brain, as is the case with cerebral palsy.

Spasticity can affect muscles in any part of the body, but is most common in leg muscles. Symptoms can vary among individuals and can be painful, disfiguring and disabling - which is what is happening for Roman.

Roman’s ability to move is hugely restricted by his spasticity. Simple activities take a lot of effort and concentration, and he often needs help – from dressing to putting on his shoes, and getting in and out of the car are just three daily activities that he is unable to do himself.

Roman works hard to be as independent as he can. He tends to fall a lot but never gives up, and keeps trying. Despite his determination and effort, Roman’s progress is permanently held back by spasticity. 

Over time, there is a high chance this chronic tightness will cause pain, take some of his independent movement away from him. This could mean multiple orthopedic surgeries are in his future.