When Freddie was six he was diagnosed with Cryopyrin-Associated Periodic Syndrome (CAPS), an extremely rare condition affecting around one in a million people. He was referred to the Rheumatology department at Great Ormond Street and now receives injections every eight weeks at the hospital to treat his condition.
“We were really relieved to get a diagnosis and Freddie’s life has really changed since,” explains his mum Angela. “His quality of life has really improved because he had begun to get arthritis in his knees and ankles and would struggle to walk. Sometimes we had to carry him because he was in so much pain.”
“We used to have to get a taxi from the tube to the hospital because he couldn’t walk the short distance, but now he is playing football and runs around. He is so much better and happier. Being in pain all the time is miserable, especially for a child who doesn’t understand why.”
Because Great Ormond Street has been a large part of his life, Freddie is now taking part in their Bad Hair Day Campaign to raise funds and help others who rely on the hospital’s services. He is also one of the national faces of the campaign which means his story and photos are included in the fundraising packs.
You can read more about Freddie’s story here and donate through his JustGiving page here.
Great Ormond Street’s Bad Hair Day is on Friday 10th February and you can sign up at www.gosh.org/badhairday