Madden struggles with a form of muscular dystrophy, which leaves him unable to keep up with his peers outside – but, in the digital world, it’s an even playing field. To ensure he has the right gear to succeed, Satan’s Little Helper stepped up to help.
Fourteen-year-old Madden battles a rare condition called Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT) – a form of muscular dystrophy, which was diagnosed when he was 12. His dad Ardie explains how it caused a massive lifestyle shift, in more ways than one.
“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 Madden to be unsteady and tire out a lot faster than other children.
“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,” says Ardie.
Making the invisible, visible
At the time of our interview, Madden is semi-mobile and can still walk short distances; however, even that is challenging for him.
“If you just looked at him, you wouldn’t know anything is wrong – but he can’t walk for more than 10 minutes without needing a rest,” says Ardie.
“The fact that 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!”
The one place where Madden can play and compete with his mates on a level playing field is in the digital world. He’s a passionate gamer but, until now, had been using a chair that was a long way from being fit for purpose. Using it for any period of time would leave him sore, stiff and less mobile.
When Satan’s Little Helper heard his story, we knew we had to do something to help – so, we sent Madden a brand-new gaming chair.
Fit for purpose fun!
“When he’s not at school, he’s in his room,” says Ardie. “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 has 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.
“Ah man, it’s just so good to see him smiling and happy!”
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