HyperMED Patient Update

Abby Godfrey - Hypoxic Encephalopathy, Global Delay

‘Mal– just a quick note to give you an update on Abby’s progress. Abby was born with a range of issues that has resulted in global development delay; severe cerebral palsy, seizures and she cannot speak. After the first week of intensive therapy Abby finally began to settle with the Hyperbaric and Lokomat but she was very tired by the end of the day; we did not notice any major changes and her seizures also remained unchanged. Abby normally has between 4-5 seizures per day

During week 2 Abby was more settled in the chamber and Lokomat sessions. Abby also appeared to have days where she was more alert. Abby also commenced using median nerve stimulation during Lokomat sessions. Abby continued to be very drained and we began to notice a change in her seizure patterns. She was having many more minor seizures during both the day and at night.  

Week 3 was a big week! Lots of changes - Abby appears to be experiencing a definite change in her neurologic pattern. Abby appears to be more alert and active. She is picking up objects, toys, food and mouthing. She is making eye contact where as previously she would not respond or even recognize that you were there. She is more interactive with people and taking more notice of her surroundings and the changes occurring. Abby is doing exceptionally well on the Lokomat – she is more relaxed and her walking patterns have improved greatly. When she first started on the Lokomat her legs were like spaghetti and seemed to going in all the wrong directions. Now when walking on the Lokomat her legs and feet are moving better and her alignment also appears to be much improved. Abby is more relaxed; her balance has improved with sitting at table and short periods of standing time. 

Week 4 Abby is definitely more relaxed, watching movies, feeding better but her seizure pattern has increased. The change in chamber pressure seemed to help. By the end of week 4 we have noticed a definite improvement with alternating squint. Abby is now sitting up in stroller when out and about, very alert and appearing to be very interested in cars, people, buildings and generally anything of interest. Abby seems a lot happier and at times laughs and chuckles at things that amuse her. Some nights she sits up in bath unsupported while having her hair washed. When lying in the bath and on her tummy her arms are no longer constantly crossing – she is much more relaxed. When she is on her tummy she can now push up! 

Week 5 Abby’s seizures continue but the severity of the seizures has reduced and are now lasting shorter periods of time. Night time seizures appear to have stopped! During the middle of week 5 Abby has now started to roll both directions (something she has not done in 18 months) and pushing up high to look around! She is now very interested in what is happening around her and her vocalisation has increased greatly. 

In general we feel that HBO and Lokomat are not a "quick fix solution" but we do feel that the combination of treatments that HyperMED provide are a very positive step in the right direction, maximising Abby’s potentials and developmental skills.’ Thank-you Liz and Mark.