8-Year-Old Ichthyosis Patient Gets Windfall in Fundraising Drive
A drive to collect funds for the construction of a bathroom for eight-year-old Kaido, who suffers from a rare skin disorder called ichthyosis, was so successful the boy and his grandmother will receive a new house.
Kaido's story was featured on last week's ETV “Ringvaade” program, which asked for donations for a new bathroom, as he is currently forced to bathe in a child's plastic bath in the middle of the living room.
Ichthyosis is a genetic skin disorder which has more than 25 varieties. All types of ichthyosis have dry, thickened, scaly or flaky skin. The disease can not be fully cured, but can be kept in check with frequent moisturizing.
Over 4,000 people supported the cause, donating 80,000 euros through the Tartu University Hospital Children's Foundation.
The foundation decided to construct a new house instead of fully renovating his current home as it is in such a poor shape.
Kaido is being looked after by his grandmother. His mother died of a tick-borne illness three years ago and his father is an alcoholic.