Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Swansea Boy, 4, Diagnosed With Sanfilippo Syndrome as Family Raises £23,000 for Treatment Search

The progressive disorder has no cure, with children typically losing motor and cognitive abilities.

Overview

  • Tate’s diagnosis is Sanfilippo syndrome type A, a rare genetic condition often described as childhood dementia.
  • His mother launched a GoFundMe that had collected more than £23,000 by November 17 to fund potential therapies abroad and make special memories.
  • Clinicians initially labeled Tate autistic at age two, a common early misdiagnosis before neurodegeneration becomes clear.
  • An MRI in March 2024 reportedly showed brain cavities, which led to confirmation of the Sanfilippo diagnosis.
  • Specialist groups report typical life expectancy of about 15 years and estimate only 3,000–5,000 people affected in industrialized countries, including roughly 140 children in the U.K.