Henry now attends mainstream school. He is a completely different boy and Bronwyn describes her experience with Royal Far West as nothing short of life-changing.

Even as a baby, Henry Rich was always ‘busy’. But despite repeated assurance by friends and professionals that he was ‘just being a boy’, his mother Bronwyn felt something was not right. For six years she travelled to Sydney, Newcastle and Port Macquarie to visit psychiatrists, psychologists and paediatricians but was unable to get a diagnosis. Until one day, a chance conversation led her to Royal Far West.

Within a couple of months, Henry had made his first visit to Royal Far West. The timing was critical. Both Bronwyn and Henry’s dad, Pete, had reached a point of desperation. There was no doubt Henry was bright – in fact, academically he was well ahead of his peers – but he was easily distracted and very disruptive. He was also beginning to sleep less and less. It was affecting his social relationships and exhausting his parents.

Since their first visit to Manly, Bronwyn and Henry have not looked back. For the first time, Henry saw a paediatrician who was able to diagnose his condition and plan his care. From there he went on to see psychologists and occupational therapists while Bronwyn received advice on diet, routine and behavioural management.

Henry now attends mainstream school. He is a completely different boy and Bronwyn describes her experience with Royal Far West as nothing short of life-changing.

‘I just cannot explain how amazing Royal Far West is,’ she says. ‘To have that support and to be able to talk to other mothers who feel the same way as I did, is such a relief – I no longer feel alone. It’s everything I could have hoped for and more.’

With the help of Royal Far West, Henry will continue to flourish and mature but Bronwyn is aware he will always need ongoing support through adolescence. She is an avid supporter for Royal Far West, actively raising money and awareness at every opportunity.

‘Knowing Royal Far West is there is my safety-blanket and I will always be grateful,’ she says. ‘Doing our bit to raise money and awareness – well, that’s the least we can do’.