Tibike was born on 10 January 2013 and developed perfectly normally as a young child. She was sitting up at six months, standing at nine months, and walking by the time she was one.

In 2017, however, everything changed. A test revealed that his CK levels were very high, and genetic testing subsequently confirmed that he was suffering from Duchenne muscular dystrophy. This is a currently incurable condition characterised by progressive muscle weakness, which means that Tibike needs regular medical check-ups, physiotherapy, swimming and rehabilitation.

Over the years, the family has done everything they can to ensure that Tibike’s condition remains stable for as long as possible. In August 2024, he started using a wheelchair and began attending the Special Needs School, where he quickly settled in, made friends and became successful at boccia.

As there is currently no definitive cure for the condition, his family is doing everything they can to provide him with every opportunity that might help stabilise his condition and improve his quality of life. They are now raising funds for a new course of treatment, which they hope will help ensure that Tibike can lead an active and independent life for as long as possible.