Harry was a normal delivery and weighed 6lbs 12oz. Head circumference 34 cms (small). We became concerned at 8 months as Harry was not sitting up. Then the investigations began. He had MRI scans, blood tests, chromosome and genetic tests. The results were all normal. He had an operation for a squint when he was I year old he wears glasses for long-sight. He was also operated on for hypospadias at about 16 months and this was successful.

We saw yet another specialist in October 96 when we were strongly reassured there was no need to worry unduly , that he is slowly progressing and that this meant he didn’t have a progressive neurological disorder. However, the problems continued.

At the age of 5 years 5 months his head circumference was 48 cms which was still small but relatively it was growing normally. The conclusion from all the experts was Microcephaly, developmental delay and obsessive behaviour. But they were unable to make a diagnosis . However , apart from the obvious global delay his behaviour was very worrying.

Family history

Both parents are healthy they have a younger son who is healthy. There is no family history of learning difficulties or any from of motor disorder.

Harry’s problems were as follows: licking inappropriate things, smelling and touching ladies’ hair. He also developed an obsession with keys, videos (rewinding). He is unable to interact with his peers but is very sociable with grown ups. He has had frequent aggressive tantrums, particularly with his mother and brother.

Limited concentration makes it difficult for him to learn, although he has a fantastic memory which helps him. He cannot write. Although he is still undiagnosed his educational psychologist has put him on the Autistic spectrum but he is not Autistic according to his doctors.

6 months after starting G-Therapy:

The most noticeable change has been Harry’s facial expression. He looks more alert, seems to have gained confidence and looks more mature.

His tantrums are not so frequent but can still be as aggressive. Last month the eye doctor was surprised that his eyesight had improved. He plays with his younger brother more and attempts to join in with his cousins. He also talks much more, has increased his vocabulary and his speech is clearer. His speech is also more ‘expressive’ with variations in his tone. The other night at bed time he started one of his biggest conversations so far without relying on his standard phrases.

Harry said ‘Mummy, what day is it tomorrow?’
Me : ‘Wednesday’
Harry: ‘Do I go to Auntie’s tomorrow’ (his childminder)
Me: ‘Yes Harry’
Harry: ‘And do I go to school tomorrow?’
Me: ‘Yes Harry’
Harry: ‘Mummy, what day is the weekend?’
Me: ‘Saturday and Sunday’
Harry: ‘well, please may I have a treat on Saturday?’

Harry is walking better with not such a wide gait. He is also running and jumping and is now able to pedal his bicycle. When we visited his previous nursery recently his carers were so surprised to see how confident he was, shaking hands with everyone and mixing with the children (but not yet playing with them). As we left his carer said that she had never seen such an improvement in a child in so short a time. Her parting remark was ‘keep taking the pills’.

Harry’s grandmother adds: ‘Harry’s behaviour is excellent and he has been off drugs for over six weeks’.