Accrington boy raises funds for vital treatment in Italy

Caiden Wakerley is fighting a rare autoimmune condition and needs support for treatment in Italy.

Accrington boy raises funds for vital treatment in Italy

Caiden Wakerley, an 11-year-old from Accrington, suffers from rheumatoid positive juvenile idiopathic arthritis and mixed connective tissue disease. These severe health challenges have kept him in constant pain and reliant on a wheelchair. His mother, Dawn Wakerley, battled for three years to secure a diagnosis before discovering that certain treatments, which could alleviate Caiden’s symptoms, were not available through the NHS. In search of better options, she found a treatment center in Italy. After fundraising, they traveled for antibody treatment, which has significantly improved Caiden's condition. However, further treatments are required, and the family is seeking additional funding to cover these costs, estimated at £15,000 for six months.

The case of Caiden Wakerley serves as a stark reminder of the limitations within the NHS concerning specific treatments for rare diseases. As families navigate the complex health care system, they often feel compelled to seek alternatives abroad due to a lack of immediate options. Caiden's journey highlights the urgency and necessity for accessible care that can genuinely impact the lives of children with chronic conditions. It raises questions about how families manage the emotional and financial burdens in the quest for better medical solutions. Medical authorities must reflect on the systemic deficiencies that drive these desperate measures.

Highlights

The struggle for proper medical support remains a pressing issue for many families.