Supporting The Summer Family

In September,Kip (9yrs) was admitted to Waikato Hospital after gradually losing mobility of his legs. He was initially diagnosed with Gullian Barre Syndrome. However, over the next month he returned to Waikato 2 more times with his condition worsening. At the last visit he was wheelchair bound with mobility loss in his legs and hands and respiratory weakness.

He was transferred to Starship. After further tests he was diagnosed with C.I.D.P ( Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy) an auto immune condition that attacks the periphial nerves.  Kip was treated with steroids and immunoglobulin infusions and has responded well, but the prognosis is still unclear as it’s unknown how much damage has been caused to the nerves.

This is a massive adjustment for the Summers due to the unpredictability of the situation.

They are currently still at Starship. Kip will be discharged to a rehab where he will be (With Gem and brother Raffi, while Possum returns to work) until Kip is strong enough to return home. Kip will need ongoing (6 weekly) IVIG and steroid treatments for at least a year.

The Summer family are also using alternative treatment for Kip, alongside medical help.

Before this,  Kip was a HUGELY active boy, who lived for skateboarding, biking and bush survival.  He has a huge love for nature so the mental and physical change for Kip has been tough.

This has been a horrific time for the Summers in many ways but we, their village can help to ease the financial strain.