Two-year-old old Gideon Lowe was diagnosed with Prader- Willi Syndrome which means the little boy has an insatiable appetite and experiences a constant compulsion to eat.
In a cruel juxtaposition, individuals who suffer from PWS also have an incredibly slow metabolism meaning that they require a much lower calorie intake than the average person, thereby leaving them susceptible to obesity-related illnesses in later life.
In addition to significant weight gain, PWS sufferers also experience anxiety, learning and behavioural problems and may never go through puberty.
Opening up about the condition which also affects Katie Price's eldest son, Harvey, Gideon's mum, Rae said: “Gideon food seeks a lot. He steals food from the floor, from bins, from the cat. If the fridge is left unlocked he will go through it. He steals food every day.”
Concerned for her young son’s future, Rae often considers the implications of Gideon’s condition, saying: “Gideon will never be able to live independently, but I hope he can live in supported living. I’d love to think of that, with him having a job and social life.”
Focussing on her other sons, the concerned mum admits that the affects of the condition extend far beyond the sufferer, saying: “Of course I worry for Gideon. And also for Henry and Zachary having to look after him in the future.”
While not seeking a miracle, Rae admits that she hopes there will be some developments in the field, saying: “I don’t believe we will cure PWS but I do hope and pray that we will find effective treatments for the worst symptoms – the hunger, the anxieties.”
Despite her son’s heartbreaking condition, Gideon’s proud mum is keen to highlight the wonderful impact her little boy has had on their family life, saying: “Gideon is just our gorgeous little boy. When I see him playing with his big brothers, my heart smiles. And he gives the best cuddles in the world.”
Rae maintains that funding research into the syndrome will guarantee a happier future for PWS sufferers.
