Child with Rare Neurological Condition Receives Critical Care
Diagnosed with Neurofibromatosis Type 1
When Joey was just a baby, his parents began to notice changes in his behavior and mood. By the time he was three years old, Joey had experienced some developmental delays, and his vision was getting worse. He was diagnosed with autism and a rare condition called Neurofibromatosis Type 1, or NF-1 for short. In cases of NF-1, tumors grow along nerve endings throughout the body.
Needing More Treatment
Joey's parents began to accommodate his autism. This mainly looked like establishing fixed routines and sticking to them. They also let him bring objects related to his special interests, such as dinosaur toys, into medical appointments. But the NF-1 was much harder to handle. An MRI of Joey's brain showed tumors growing on his optic nerves, which explained his declining vision. He would need more treatment for that, including 18 months of low-dose chemotherapy to hopefully shrink the tumors.
From Dilemma...
But Joey and his parents soon ran into a dilemma. The specialists that best could help Joey were located at a neurofibromatosis center in Birmingham, Alabama - almost 240 miles from his home in Mississippi. His parents couldn't afford gas for such a long drive. They worried even more about Joey's health, and how he would access the care he needed.
...To Diligence
Joey's health was reaching a crucial point when his parents found out about Mercy Medical Angels. His parents applied for charitable transportation assistance, and were approved. Mercy Medical Angels sent Joey's parents gas cards. Now, they were able to drive to the specialists. With the help they received from Mercy Medical Angels, they were able to perform due diligence in getting Joey to the care he critically needed.
"What A Blessing!"
Now, Joey is two months into his treatment plan. His vision is beginning to improve and his overall health is also getting better. Joey and his family have a long road ahead of them. But at least they're not traveling on that road alone. Joey's parents said: "We are so thankful for this travel assistance, as it is a huge help to making these weekly trips to medical care possible. What a blessing!"
Read More Patient Stories
