Cumbernauld teen's dream to 'raise arm in class' to come true with new arm

Tomek Ciechomski suffers from a rare genetic disorder, Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, which gradually causes his muscles to weaken meaning he needs around-the-clock support.

Now the 15-year-old, from Cumbernauld, is about to regain some independence after trialling the robotic Salvum arm support which he will take home in September.

Cheerful Tomek hopes to go to University

The St Aloysius pupil “loves talking and being the centre of attention” so cannot wait to raise his hand all by himself when he has something to say.

His mother, Anna Ciechomska, is also excited to see her inspiring son able to scratch his nose, eat, drink, and hold books on his own.

The 51-year-old NHS worker told the Glasgow Times: “Tomek is a very chatty boy, he loves to be the centre of attention and has good friends who help him.

“His dream is to raise his arm in class if he wants to say something, and now he will be able to.

“My son is a very cheerful child and is very motivational for other children and adults, he is inspirational.

“Getting the arm in September will help him eat, drink, reduce pain in his back, and give him some independence.

“He will be able to scratch his nose and head himself, all these things that we do and take for granted he will finally be able to do on his own.

“For him this will really make a big difference, he is very excited to be able to help me at home as well.

“Tomek just wants to help others. We don't realise how much people who need our help want to be helpful themselves.”

Tomek and mum Anna

Tomek was diagnosed with his rare genetic disorder at two years old after his parents noticed him struggling with his mobility.

The condition grew worse over the years and in March 2020 sadly Tomek lost the ability to walk meaning he now relies on a wheelchair.

He needs a lot of assistance with everyday tasks, but Anna hopes his new robotic arm will reduce this.

Tomek will take the arm home in September

The NHS workers had planned to save up for the arm themselves but were stunned after loved ones rallied around to help them raise more than £20,500.

This allowed them to buy Tomek the device from Rahana Life much sooner to give him more freedom.

The arm can be controlled by an app or buttons and will attach to Tomek’s wheelchair and arm giving him better mobility.

Anna said: “It is very expensive, and his arm is only a fraction of the cost as he needs hoists, ramps, and other special equipment.

“I am so grateful to see how generous everyone has been and knowing it was to make my own so happy was amazing.

“The speed in which we managed to raise money really took my breath away, I was so moved by it.

“It will allow him to be more independent and happier, he has plans to go to university and do something with his life so the donations people have made will help him achieve that.

“He is thinking about studying engineering and physics but loves talking to people so might do something with that.”

You can donate to Tomek’s health journey here.