Dementia is a devastating condition often associated with the elderly. However, it can also strike the very young. In Australia, an estimated 2,300 children are living with dementia, which is caused by more than 100 genetic conditions.
Dariya, before symptoms started to show.
Children living with dementia have the same symptoms as adults. Over months, years or decades, they progressively lose memories, skills and abilities. Tragically, most do not reach adulthood.
Telethon funding will enable groundbreaking research involving Perth families at Murdoch University, which aims to pave the way for new approaches to treating and caring for children with dementia.
This world-first research aims to test leading drug candidates to determine their potential as a treatment for childhood dementia.
After starting to show symptoms after her second birthday, Dariya was diagnosed with Sanfilippo syndrome at the age of six. This is a rare and terminal genetic metabolism disorder that doesn’t show any signs at birth. As the disease progresses, children slowly lose their ability to speak, walk and eat.
Dariya, now age 14
Dariya’s parents Emad and Deeman said that her diagnosis has impacted the whole family.
“The hardest part as parents is seeing our child suffering and not being able to help. Walking was her favourite activity, but now she cannot stand on her own two feet.”
With Telethon’s support, Murdoch University can conduct cutting-edge research into childhood dementia, which can potentially change lives and spare families from heartbreak in the future.