A mother in Peterborough, England, is asking for help for her toddler whose lifelong battle with eczema may finally come to an end thanks to an encouraging new procedure. Ines Dias is asking for help for her son so that she can fly him to Portugal where an experimental treatment has given the tot relief and the potential for a new perspective on life.
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The mom opened up to Talker about her son's condition
Ines told the magazine that it's been "heart-breaking" watching her son navigate life with extreme eczema, which he's had since he was a few months old.
"There is the bullying, the disgusted looks, and the many questions every single day," Ines said of 1-year-old Gabriel.
The condition started one month after he was born
Ines described how they first found out about Gabriel's eczema, saying that he began having dry patches pop up all over his skin within the first few weeks of his life.
By the time he was 6 months old, those patches had spread to his entire body. After trying to find help from numerous doctors, Ines says her treatment options were limited and her son suffered greatly from the condition.
Gabriel can't even sleep through the night
The pain and discomfort can be managed for a few days with "antibiotics and cortisol," according to Ines, but eventually Gabriel's rash always comes back.
"I can't even sleep with him because his condition gets worse at night and that's when he scratches most," she continues, adding that the hot weather exacerbates the condition. "It’s really heart-breaking to see him like this."
Ines is hopeful after Gabriel was able to receive treatments in Portugal
An experimental treatment has given the toddler his first real relief, according to his mom, who is asking for help to fund repeat trips to the country to see a specialist who has been using native plants and other natural ingredients to rid the boy of his rash.
"I have been in contact with a doctor in Portugal who says he can help Gabriel — but it will take a year to get the best results," she explained.
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The GoFundMe has already raised $5,111
Hopefully this treatment will continue to help Gabriel and Ines feel better. We can't imagine how hard it has to be to watch your little one suffer, especially when you know that there is something out there that could make him feel better. We have our fingers crossed that the GoFundMe raises enough money to make further treatments possible.
Good luck to Gabriel and Ines!
*Disclaimer: The advice on Mom.com is not a substitute for consultation with a medical professional or treatment for a specific condition. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem without consulting a qualified professional. Please contact your health-care provider with questions and concerns.
