Mikey's Story
From early challenges to incredible achievements, Mikey’s journey is a testament to strength, courage and optimism.
From a premature birth and relentless seizures to two major surgeries and a life full of adventure, Mikey’s journey shows the incredible hope hemispherectomy can bring.
The Cause
From healthy beginnings to a life-changing seizure.
Mikey, a twin born prematurely, reached typical milestones by six months of age. Life changed dramatically at 10 months when he experienced a prolonged seizure and was initially misdiagnosed as having a stroke.
Intervention
Fighting HHE: From Diagnosis to Hemispherectomy
At two years old, Mikey was formally diagnosed with Hemiconvulsion-Hemiplegia-Epilepsy (HHE) syndrome, along with hemiplegic cerebral palsy. Despite trying eight different medications, his seizures persisted, making daily life extremely challenging. At age six, Mikey underwent a functional hemispherectomy – the only option to stop the relentless seizures.
Action
A brave return to surgery for a brighter future.
Despite major improvements after his first surgery, residual seizure activity led to a second procedure two years later—bringing long-term stability and freedom.
Hope
Living a life of adventure after hemispherectomy.
Now approaching his 14th birthday, Mikey lives life to the fullest on the Gold Coast. He enjoys motorbike riding (great bilateral therapy!), rollercoasters at MovieWorld, and even indoor skydiving. His journey is a powerful example of resilience and the incredible possibilities that hemispherectomy can bring.
Help us empower more families like Mikey's
Your support makes it possible to provide hope, connection, and life-changing resources to families on the hemispherectomy journey.
