‘Say hello’ for Apert Awareness Month

DURBAN North residents Tracey and Brad Classens are celebrating Apert Syndrome awareness month this June. Their son, Chad was born with the rare genetic disorder which affects the way bones are formed in the womb.

“It is a spontaneous mutation, which means it is not passed on by the parents. Apert Syndrome can also range in its severity but most go on to live well and become contributing members of society,” said Tracey.

One of the common misconceptions about Apert Syndrome is that children like Chad are mentally challenged, said Brad.

“The unfortunate truth is that some people assume he is or will be mentally challenged based on his looks, and whilst he is delayed in some areas due to his surgeries, he is otherwise very intelligent as well as sensitive, so I would hope people can learn to look beyond the superficial and get to know him,” he said.

Chad (2) has had many surgeries in his short life.

“One surgery involved skull re-modelling in order to give his brain room to grow, he was also born with fused fingers and toes and has had two hand surgeries in order to separate his fingers,” said Tracey

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Apart from his surgeries Chad is a healthy child and requires no specific daily medical interventions, said Brad.

“He amazes us with his strength in overcoming the surgeries and doctors visits he has had to endure. His next surgery will be in a few years’ time somewhere before his 10th birthday,” he added.

With more public awareness comes kindness and acceptance, said the couple.

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“Instead of ‘don’t stare’ lets start teaching ‘say hello’. Chad is a very happy, friendly toddler who loves to greet everyone he meets, although he is somewhat shy. He is a typical toddler, and loves his books, colouring in, dancing to his favourite songs, eating bananas, blowing bubbles and playing with water. And he absolutely loves cars, which happens to be his favourite word,” said Tracey.

“We have had to put up with rudeness and stares since he was born as he looks a little different, but we have also met the most amazing supportive kind people along the way,” added Brad.

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