“Patrick is such a determined boy who never gives up. He’s cheeky and has a wonderful light-hearted personality,” said mum, Georgia.
Patrick is an outgoing five-year-old boy who loves to run, ride his bike, swim and do all things boys love to do.
In February 2018, Patrick had sudden onset of Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM).
“It’s a rare condition which affects parts of the spinal cord that controls movement. There is no cure and treatment is very limited. Patrick was unable to sit, hold his head up or even walk. He was paralysed in his right arm, upper left arm and left diaphragm,” explains Georgia.
“2 years later, Patrick has had 3 nerve transfers and lots of physio and OT. Although he has lost movement in his right hand, Patrick is now able to lift his left arm in the air, bend his right elbow and his diaphragm has improved. He can now run, jump and swim again!”
With movement returning to Patrick, he was able to get involved in his favourite activities but riding a bike. Georgia and husband, Adam, wanted to find the right solution for Patrick so he could be able to ride without struggling.
“Our goal for Patrick was for him to ride his bike. Without the use of his right hand and shoulder, this made riding a bike a little tricky. We wanted to find a solution that allowed him to use his right arm as much as possible, but also provided assistance with balance.”
Fortunately for Georgia and Adam, they discovered TAD through Sydney Children’s Hospital in Randwick. With the help of TAD Volunteers, Chris Chambers and Rod Savage, Patrick would soon be riding his bike in no time!
Georgia praised Chris and Rod’s help for his commitment perfecting Patrick’s unique solution.
“We had a wonderful experience with TAD and the volunteers. Rod and Chris assisted with Patrick’s solution and we are so grateful for their hard work and dedication. Rod was always happy to look at any suggestions we had and as a team, have come up with a fantastic outcome!”
“Patrick is your typical boy who just likes to do what other kids do. To see him be able to get on the bike and actively attach his arm and ride, made me and Adam incredibly happy. He was just so happy within himself and super pumped to get out and use it with his family and friends!”
When asked what she would say to families looking for a solution for their child’s unique needs, Georgia said, “For any child needing assistance, talk to TAD. We have used TAD not just for Patrick’s hand splint for his bike, but we have for other items needed for school. With TAD’s help, Patrick’s ability to be more independent, has changed. I highly recommend TAD and their dedicated volunteers.”
