Radek’s Story
In 2018, Radek was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) following observations by a psychologist, an educator, and a medical interview. Autism spectrum disorders are neurodevelopmental conditions, often characterized by challenges in social interactions, communication, emotional expression, speech, and manual activities.
Radek’s symptoms included:
- Lack of independence, requiring daily support (e.g., with eating).
- Difficulty communicating with his environment.
- Hyperactivity.
To support his development, Radek attends numerous therapies aimed at improving sensory, communication, and motor skills.
Stem Cell Therapy for Radek
Before Radek’s birth, his mother made the decision to collect and store his umbilical cord blood. This foresight allowed Radek to receive an autologous transplant of his own hematopoietic stem cells in 2023. The procedure was performed at the University Children’s Hospital in Lublin. The goal of the therapy was to enhance the effectiveness of existing therapies and aid Radek in his daily activities.
Effects of Stem Cell Therapy
Following the administration of his stem cells, Radek demonstrated notable progress. He began pronouncing the “r” sound, spontaneously using words like bór instead of las, his mother recalls. He also learned to clap his hands and showed an increased need for closeness with his mother, which significantly improved his overall communication skills.
Expert Insight
Dr. Dariusz Boruczkowski, a specialist in pediatric diseases and clinical transplantology, emphasized the importance of early cord blood collection in Radek’s case: “The earlier collection of cord blood cells enabled us to attempt improving Radek’s clinical condition and health. Without the parents’ decision to bank cord blood, this medical procedure—which appears crucial, especially for children where other therapies have not been effective — would not have been possible.”