An east Auckland teenager with a rare genetic condition is grateful for having received equipment that will make it easier for him to pursue his passion for gaming.
Madden Palmer, who lives in Pakuranga Heights, has Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT), which damages the nerves in a person’s arms and legs.
The 14-year-old struggles to keep up with his peers in the outside world as it’s difficult for him to socialise and have fun.
Madden’s dad Ardie explains how the condition caused a massive lifestyle shift for the family in more ways than one when he was diagnosed at age 12.
“We were living and settled in Australia at the time but had to move back to New Zealand for quicker access to treatment.
“Madden ended up with splints on his feet and legs with regular physio treatment and exercises to strengthen his muscles and improve mobility.”
Madden also has an issue with his feet, where one turns in and the other turns out.
In combination with CMT, it causes him to be unsteady and tire out a lot faster than other teenagers.
“Eventually, he’ll end up in a wheelchair full-time and until then my goal is to help him enjoy his life as much as possible,” Ardie says.
Madden is currently semi-mobile and can walk short distances, however even doing that is challenging.
“If you just looked at him, you wouldn’t know anything is wrong,” Ardie says.
“But he can’t walk for more than 10 minutes without needing a rest.
“The fact his disability is hidden makes it really difficult for him, as people make assumptions when he can’t do the same things as his peers.
“Being different at that age feels like the worst thing in the world.”
Despite his challenges, the online world offers Madden a level playing field.
To ensure he’s got the gear he needs to succeed, Hell Pizza’s Satan’s Little Helper programme has stepped up by donating him a brand-new gaming chair.
He previously used a chair that wasn’t fit for purpose as it would leave him feeling sore, stiff and less mobile.
“When he’s not at school, he’s in his room,” Ardie says.
“He spends a lot of time in the chair and he’s enjoying a lot of socialising via gaming.
“He was unbelievably stoked when he got the chair. He couldn’t believe someone would do something like that for him.
“It’s been a huge help. It’s a lot more comfortable and, when he finishes gaming, he’s a lot more mobile because his body is less stiff and sore.
“It’s so good to see him smiling and happy.”
