Three-year-old Loviise has a rare condition called achondroplasia, which stunts the growth of her arms and legs, causing severe pain and other serious health problems even in childhood.
The cause of the condition is unknown. It is a genetic mutation that affects the body but not the child’s mental abilities. The medicine Voxzogo reverses the course of the disease: it promotes the growth of arms and legs, thus helping to improve body proportions. It also reduces the painful strain on the back and legs and improves everyday functioning. The only alternative to the medication is limb lengthening surgery, but the recovery is difficult and long-term, and the likelihood of complications is very high, so surgery is only performed when absolutely necessary.
Loviise started taking the medication in August last year. According to her mother, the little girl is getting stronger and more active every day and has even grown 5.5 centimeters in length! Loviise no longer has to watch her kindergarten mates from the bench, but is now doing her best to keep up with her classmates on shorter walks.
However, if the treatment is interrupted, Loviise will not be able to do even the simplest tasks on her own: tying her shoelaces, reaching switches and shelves in the shop. The condition can also affect mental health, as the child’s different body proportions can be a source of anxiety for others and make it difficult to make friends.
Please help Loviise to grow – so she doesn’t have to suffer and can explore the world with her peers! Donations can be made conveniently via the website by selecting “Medicine for Loviise” from the donation form.