Dandy-Walker Syndrome (DWS) is a congenital (happening before birth) condition where the cerebellum does not develop normally. The cerebellum is an area at the back of the brain that controls movement and balance.
With DWS, parts of the cerebellum may never develop, may be very small, or may become filled with fluid or fluid cysts.
Children with DWS may also have heart problems, face or limb defects or problems with vison and hearing. DWS can cause delays in both motor and mental development. The severity of symptoms and long-term outcomes are different for each child. Some children may lose the ability to move parts of their body (paralysis), seizures and problems with thinking and learning.
In Teddy’s case, we were very blessed because he could eventually walk, talk, ride his bike, read, and even play the piano! Here are some photos of Teddy when he was younger. Nothing seemed to hold him back!
