Boy with genetic disorder in Leyte receives wheelchair from GMA Kapuso Foundation

A 10-year-old boy from Leyte who has a genetic disorder that affects his bones has received a wheelchair from GMA Kapuso Foundation.

According to "24 Oras" on Monday, Dave has osteogenesis imperfecta.

Also known as brittle bone disease, it is an inherited condition that causes bones to be brittle and break easily.

Dr. Wesson Pious Espiritu, an orthopaedic and sports surgeon, explained that the disorder affects one's collagen. There is also no cure for it.

"It's a genetic disorder wherein ang naaapektuhan 'yung tinatawag nating collagen, so kung may abnormality tayo sa collagen, nagiging marupok 'yung mga connective tissue natin, specifically or most commonly affected is 'yung bone. Walang cure dito," he said.

Due to his condition, Dave struggles to move and is smaller in stature compared to his peers in the second grade. His father who earns only P300 a day as a farmer built him his own customized chair for school so he can continue attending classes.

"Pursigido talaga siya, kaya kahit mahirap sinuportahan po namin talaga para hindi niya maisip na maiba siya sa lahat ng mga bata," said his mother Jeanette Rubia.

In observance of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities on December 3, GMA Kapuso Foundation traveled to Leyte to give Dave a brand new pediatric wheelchair.

"Maraming maraming salamat po sa GMA Kapuso Foundation," his mother said. "Itong wheelchair na binigay niyo malaking tulong 'yan sa anak ko hanggang sa kaniyang paglaki."

For those who wish to lend a helping hand and support GMA Kapuso Foundation's projects, donations may be made via Metrobank, Land Bank, BDO, Bank of Commerce, UnionBank, PNB, Cebuana Lhuillier, GCash, Lazada, and Shopee. Visit the foundation's website for more information.

— CDC, GMA Integrated News