Tell us your story - Celebrating 50 years of Newborn Metabolic Screening

2019 marks 50 years of newborn metabolic screening in New Zealand. A series of unique videos have been produced of families who have benefited from metabolic screening, and key figures who have influenced and been involved with the programme over time.

Behind the Scenes of the Newborn Metabolic Screening Programme

Take a look behind the scenes of the Newborn Metabolic Screening Programme for a glimpse of what’s involved in making this incredible nationwide programme happen every day.

Stella’s Story: New Zealand’s first SCID baby

In 2018, Stella Orpwood became the first New Zealand baby to be diagnosed with Severe Combined Immune Deficiency through the Newborn Metabolic Screening Programme. Stella ’s parents share the moving and heart-warming story of their daughter’s health journey since being diagnosed with this rare condition.

Lily and Milton’s stories: Two families, two views on life with congenital hypothyroidism

Within days of their birth, Lily and Richard were both diagnosed with having Congenital Hypothyroidism. Discover the difference that early diagnosis made to the lives of these two energetic, active children who have not let their diagnosis slow them down.

Rosemary’s story: Me, my baby and PKU

Rosemary Jack was diagnosed with the condition phenylketonuria (PKU) soon after she was born. Her early diagnosis via the Newborn Metabolic Screening Programme meant she has been able to live a full and active life and is now expecting her first child. She gives us an insight into what this diagnosis means for her and her future child.

Otis’s story: Living with cystic fibrosis

Otis is 2 years old and has cystic fibrosis. He was diagnosed within days of his birth through newborn metabolic screening. Otis’ family share how this challenging condition has impacted Otis and his family since his diagnosis in this moving and insightful story.

Richard’s story - Healthy and active with CAH

12- year old Richard was diagnosed with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) days after his birth, as a result of newborn metabolic screening. His early diagnosis has enabled him to receive the medication and care required to help him develop into healthy and very active child. Richard and his family share what life with CAH is like for them now.