I am Boris’ mother. He is 14 years old and has autism.
A completely healthy baby was born without any developmental problems. At one and a half years old, he loved to kick a ball and chase his sister. All this changed within 3 days of receiving the measles vaccine. The child lost eye contact, stopped noticing others, lined up everything in perfect rows and only walked along a specific route. After consulting a psychologist, I realized that these were signs of autism.
We started visiting daycare centers, consulting with Bulgarian and foreign specialists, various protocols, supplements, medications, diets, therapies. Year after year, step by step, things are slowly improving.
Over the past 5 years, we have done 3 stem cell infusions. We have traveled to Ukraine, Hungary, Italy for therapies. Boris is already a curious child who wants to communicate and learn. He understands much better, tries to say words, read and write. But we are still very far from my goal as a parent – to become as independent as possible.
I recently learned that the Ukrainian EmCell clinic, where we did stem cell infusions, will work with a Bulgarian clinic and will also do them in Bulgaria because of the war. I have to continue with the therapies because Bobo is progressing, he needs a little more boost.
But the amount needed is 12,000 euros, huge for our capabilities.
I have always said that caring for a child with special needs is not a sprint, but a marathon. Every day, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, I put in my time, effort and resources unreservedly. I am unable to work because I am his personal assistant.
We need all the help we can get to make another infusion. Many friends and acquaintances, relatives and strangers have helped us so far, for which I am eternally grateful. The effect on Boris is visible and we must continue the fight.