Last Updated on: 27th July 2023, 04:13 pm
Enzo flew from the UK to Bangkok for the first time in 2016 at only 3 years old. Born with quadriplegic cerebral palsy due to trauma caused during labor, his parents hoped they could do anything to improve their son’s quality of life. As they researched methods of treatment online, they came across stem cell treatments as an option. Hesitant, they continued their research until they found Beike, which was “by far the best treatment option for (them)”. Watching the numerous testimonials online, they knew it had a lot of potential to treat their own son. “The treatment isn’t available in the U.K so to begin with I was reluctant to travel for a treatment we didn’t know much about, but the more I read about it the more I knew we had to give it a go.”
The family only had positive feedback for the Beike and hospital staff. “Travelling from the U.K, our flight was long. We were exhausted and the jet lag was horrendous. However, the staff here are incredible. We were promptly met at the airport and driven to our hotel. During the journey to the hotel we were shown our schedule and were given the opportunity to discuss treatment and ask any questions. When we arrived at our hotel we were assisted to our room and then left to unpack and get some rest. The nurses brought Enzo’s meals to our room and checked his oxygen and heart rate on each occasion. We were reassured that if we needed anything at all, we could just ask. We met with the doctor on the second day. They carried out the appropriate tests, including weight and blood. They discussed with us what areas we would like to concentrate on for each of the treatments and they relayed this to each department to be sure everyone was working to achieve the same goal. Everyone was friendly, helpful and very efficient in their organisation and care.”
Enzo started treatment unable to lift his head for long periods of time, sit, stand, or walk. He had limited use of his hands and arms, and was unable to eat or speak. Once treatment started, however, his parents began to see changes.
“After our son’s first stem cell treatment (2016) we noticed significant improvements. In the 3 1/2 weeks that we were here he gained better control of his hands and arms, he learnt to swallow (still not enough to eat a meal but enough to stop him from dribbling and to allow him a little taster of food on occasion). He also had quite a severe “squint” in both eyes, which corrected almost instantly. These effects have been lasting.”
Enzo received a number of supportive therapies as well, including PT, OT, hydrotherapy, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, transcranial magnetic stimulation, acupuncture, and nerve growth factor. These therapies helped guide the stem cells to the right places, and help Enzo gain new strengths and abilities he did not have before. His family agrees, saying “This intensive support program is unique to Beike and was one of the main reasons we chose them.”
Enzo returned again in 2018, this time with new goals. This time his parents plan to focus on his fine motor skills and oral stimulation through occupational therapy. They have worked on his head control, arm movement, and core strength.
They have already seen results in these areas and hope to see more. They even hope to come back again. “I wish that stem cell treatment was available in the U.K, but until it is, we hope to continue working with Beike and we hope to return for a third time in the future.”