Doctors Said This Little Boy Would Never Walk, Talk Or Show Emotion

Owen James is just 18-months-old but already has achieved so much in his life. For Owen every laugh and smile is a precious win for his dedicated parents.

After a problem free pregnancy seemingly healthy baby Owen was born. 3 weeks into his life he seemed very irritable. At first his parents thought this was normal for a baby of his age. When things didn't improve they took him to the doctor where they were told everything was 'ok' that he had a case of reflux. Again things didn't improve for baby Owen. At 10 weeks his parents noticed an issue with his vision. He wasn't responding to toys or following things in front of his face.  Just three months into his life he Owen was diagnosed with Lissencephaly - a disorder which literally translates as 'smooth brain'. His mother explains this ‘means Owen’s brain looks smooth like an egg, whereas the typical brain has folds and grooves on the outside’ – a malformation which has a devastating impact on his ability to function.

Doctors warned parents, Taryn and Vincent DiCandilo that their son may never see, walk, talk or show emotion.

Clearly Owen is defying all odds laughing, smiling and just generally enjoying life. 

His family are committed to seeking out every possible therapy and device to help Owen achieve as much as he can including this Upsee  device (pictured below) which allows him to experience the sensation of walking. 

After his diagnosis his parents found out his name means 'young warrior' which they say 'it's quite fitting we named him that! He truly is a young warrior'. 

The average life expectancy of a child with the neurological disorder is only 10 years old. 

‘They used to say most children don’t live past the age of two and will never be able to sit, walk or talk – basically any normal function isn't hopeful,’ explained Mrs DiCandilo.

However, therapy can help children with Lissencephaly and the children can show promising improvements.'

The entire DiCandilos family focused their attention on finding ways to help Owen accomplish as much as possible. 

He has been nurtured and surrounded by love and encouragement, growing into a gorgeous, fun-loving child who laughs freely every day, bringing joy to everyone around him. 

‘We didn't know if he’d ever laugh or show emotion, but he laughs everyday,' said his loving mum.

You can follow Owen's story on a Facebook page that is dedicated to keeping his supporters updated. Many of Owen's supporters have formed a tribe to raise awareness of his condition and raise funds to ensure he has the treatment and therapy that he needs. 

A fundraising page for Owen is raising vital funds for intense specialised therapy and equipment for the rest of his life and his home and the vehicle he travels in will need modifications as he grows up. 

Current investigation into intense therapy blocks are being looked at for Owen and can cost up to $10,500 for a three week program. 

This therapy is either located in Los Angeles, California or interstate within Australia - Sydney and Melbourne and can require visits every 6 months.

‘If we don’t get in to the Sydney or Melbourne sessions we will consider a trip to LA where the demand is just as high but they have more facilities.’

We wish Owen all the best and hope that he continues to make progress and live the best life he possibly can!