The Prader-Willi Syndrome Booklet Launch for children transitioning into their teenage years
Our fantastic Endocrinology team were able to host their very own book launch this week, supported by our Learning Disability Team and funded by our Children's Hospital Charity - focusing on providing advice and support to young people transitioning into their teenage years with Prader-Willi Syndrome.
Prader-Willi Syndrome is a rare genetic condition that causes a wide range of physical symptoms, learning difficulties and behavioural challenges. The condition is characterized by excessive appetite, often leading to morbid obesity, and a variety of other signs including intellectual disability, short stature, and underdevelopment, caused especially by the absence of certain genes normally present on the copy of chromosome 15.
Due to developmental challenges and mild to moderate learning difficulties, children may find it difficult to come to understand concepts like going through puberty, having your period and transitioning into teenage life. Our Endocrinology team have put together a series of comprehensive booklets to help young people understand the changes happening to their bodies.
Our teams hosted a special event at our Children’s Hospital Waterfall House, where children could meet with their new consultants, have their faces painted, and have their portraits drawn by a creative caricaturist. With balloons, food and plenty of cups of tea to go around, the day was a success with many parents sharing how much their children loved the event.
Our Endocrinology Team is one of the largest endocrine and bone departments in the world, seeing approximately 2,500 children and young people every year in our clinics. Without their dedication and support, our Growing Up booklet series would not have been possible, along with our Birmingham Children’s Charity who has funded the project throughout.
Learn more about our Endocrinology Team