The mother of a three-year-old boy who is living with Juvenile Parkinson’s disease says getting information on the diagnosis hasn’t been easy.
Cortney Mclellan’s son Keegan is as curious and energetic as any child, but sometimes his little hands tremor when trying to hold something.
“About a month ago he started going down, dragging his leg, spilling drinks more often, falling … I don't know what to do,” says Mclellan.
After months of doctors visits to both Halifax and Saint John, a neurologist confirmed Keegan has Juvenile Parkinson’s Dystonia - leaving the family with more questions than answers.
“What caused it? That's my main one. Why does he have it?” Mclellan says.
Parkinson's is often seen diagnosed in middle-aged or older adults, which is why Mclellan has so many questions. Keegan’s on medication that has helped, but she says lately he’s been getting worse.
“It's been really hard,” says Mclellan, “When I watch him I just want to cry all the time.”
Mclellan says three referrals from Keegan's specialist have been sent to Toronto Sick Kids Hospital, but they haven't heard anything since. Mclellan says as he gets worse, the questions continue to pile up.
“Just to be able to have a drink like every other kid, not spill it all over him. I have to change his shirt so many times in a day, just because he gets wet,” she says.
The Mclellan's also want to spread awareness of the disorder in the case there are other children going through the same thing.
With files from CTV Atlantic’s Laura Brown.
