Jorge Vlahos-Moffitt is desperate to lead a normal life.
At the age of 10 he was diagnosed with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. The disorder has had a huge impact on his life. He struggles to go out on a daily basis, showers constantly and suffers panic attacks.
Jorge has also been diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome and suffers from a major depressive Disorder. His goal is to be able to leave the house without the anxiety and feelings of dread he suffers on a daily basis.
His mum, Nikki Moffitt, said that while Jorge has tried a variety of different treatments, none have had a profound impact.
“We’ve tried cognitive behavioral therapy, exposure therapy and medication over the past eight years to limited success,” she said.
“It’s been really difficult, because all he wants to do is go out and live a normal life like all the other people his age.”
While the situation has often looked bleak, Jorge has found hope in the form of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS).
The therapy involves using a magnet to target and stimulate certain areas of the brain and has been used to treat depression and anxiety. However the therapy is a costly one.
“This is pretty much our last chance, he said he wanted to give up on it if this doesn’t work,” Ms Moffitt said.
In a bid to get Jorge the treatment he requires, Ms Moffitt has set up a Mycause page asking for public assistance.
“The community support has been really good, so far we’ve raised over $1500 but we’ve still got a way to go, so any help would be appreciated more than you know.”
To help Jorge visit: www.mycause.com.au/page/169385/rtms-treatment-for-jorge
