A LITTLE boy in Okehampton is fighting to recover from a rare childhood disease that affects fewer than one in 25,000 children. Kawasaki disease, which was first diagnosed in Japan in the 1960s, causes prolonged fever and skin loss, and can result in serious heart damage. The cause of the disease is still unknown, but it is believed that a virus or bacterial infection may be responsible. Nine-year-old Michael Reeves was first diagnosed with Kawasaki disease two years ago, and was treated by surgeons in Bristol last autumn for heart damage caused by it. He is now slowly recovering from his surgery, and is trying to catch up with the schoolwork that he missed as a result of the disease. His health problems have taken their toll on the whole family. Michael lives with his mother Sherryee, and 12-year-old brother Jake in a two-bedroomed house in Okehampton. Until the illness struck, he shared a bedroom with Jake, but months of illness and disturbed nights have meant that the boys have had to sleep in separate rooms. His mother sleeps on a sofa downstairs. Michael's recovery is also being complicated by noise pollution in the neighbourhood. Sherryee is now desperately looking for a new house for the family to rent — and is appealing for anybody who might own a suitable property to get in touch. 'Housing services have assessed us as needing a three-bedroomed house,' she said. 'We're a high priority, but I've still been finding it really difficult to find a landlord who'll accept us — just because I claim benefits.' 'I've got references to say how house-proud I am from previous landlords, and character references from leaders at Okehampton Fairplace Church, who've really supported me. All I want is a safe, quiet home for my children.' Anybody who has a suitable property should email Sherryee at [email protected]">[email protected]
