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Liam is a spirited 12-year-old with a passion for football, gaming and Formula 1. He has spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) and uses a power wheelchair, but that doesn't stop him from living an active and exciting life.
Liam got his first wheelchair, a Panthera Micro, when he was just 18 months old, followed by the Panthera Bambino, and since then he has had several different power wheelchairs. Today, he uses the Permobil F3 Corpus and Permobil F5 Corpus VS, which allow him to participate in everyday activities on an equal footing with his friends. Thanks to the unique features and maneuverability of the wheelchairs, he is rarely limited in what he wants to do.
Football, travelling and friendship
Football means a lot to Liam, and he plays on SIF/Hessa's team, where there is a good team spirit and room for everyone. With his floorball wheelchair, he can attend both training and matches - something he really enjoys. When he's not on the court, he loves playing FIFA and Formula 1 on his game console at home.
One of the greatest experiences so far for Liam was travelling to Abu Dhabi to watch Formula 1 live. The highlight was getting to hold the steering wheel of Lewis Hamilton's car! But Formula 1 isn't the only thing that lights the spark - Liam is also a huge Manchester United fan, and it was a dream come true when he and his family travelled to England to watch them play at the legendary Old Trafford.
Travelling and experiencing new places means a lot to Liam - he loves adventure and the memories it brings.
Being part of an inclusive friends group
Liam deeply values his friendships and is part of a large, welcoming, and inclusive group of friends. Whether it's football, gaming nights or other activities, he's always included. He is now in his final year of primary school and is looking forward to starting secondary school after the summer holidays. He's looking forward to new challenges, friendships and experiences.
Standing tall
Liam's standing chair allows him to stand, offering significant benefits both at school and at home. At school, he can participate more actively in class, reach the blackboard and be at eye level with teachers and classmates - something that enhances learning and social interaction. At home, he becomes more independent; he can reach the fridge, the kitchen table and participate in everyday chores on his own terms.
Liam's story shows that with the right equipment, good friends and a positive attitude, it's possible to live a rich and active life - no matter what challenges you face.
What is Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA)?
Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) is a rare inherited condition that affects the nerves controlling muscle movement, leading to progressive muscle weakness. It is caused by a faulty gene known as SMN1, which is passed on by both parents. People with SMA typically do not have learning difficulties, as the condition does not affect intelligence.
There are four main types of SMA, classified by the age symptoms begin and the level of motor function affected:
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Type 1: Appears in babies under 6 months old and is the most severe form.
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Type 2: Develops in infants aged 6 to 17 months.
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Type 3: Starts in children or teenagers from 18 months to 17 years.
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Type 4: Begins in adulthood and is usually milder.
SMA occurs in approximately 1 in every 10,000 births in the UK
Symptoms can include weak or floppy limbs, difficulty with movement, breathing or swallowing problems, and spinal curvature. Diagnosis is confirmed through a blood test, and genetic counselling is available for those at risk.
While SMA can worsen over time, treatments and therapies are available to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Source: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/spinal-muscular-atrophy-sma/
Name: Pia Jordan
Work title: Marketing Manager - Permobil
City/Country: Norway