Living with H-ABC/TUBB4A

PRACTICAL TOOLS AND INFORMATION FOR PARENTS AND CAREGIVERS

Living with H-ABC means navigating complex medical needs, therapies, education, and everyday challenges.

This section brings together guidance, tools, and shared stories to support your family’s journey—whether you're newly diagnosed or well along the path.

A young person with curly hair smiling and laughing outdoors on a sunny day, sitting in a wheelchair.
  • Getting a complete and accurate diagnosis is critical—but many doctors may not be familiar with H-ABC or may not order the right tests. The Foundation to Fight H-ABC partners with GeneDx, a trusted leader that has diagnosed many of our community members.

    Why Genetic Testing Matters
    Getting a full and accurate diagnosis is essential to understanding and managing H-ABC. Unfortunately, many doctors are unfamiliar with the condition or may not order the appropriate genetic tests. That’s why working with specialists who understand TUBB4A-related leukodystrophies is so important.

    Free Genetic Counseling with GeneDx
    The Foundation partners with GeneDx, a trusted provider that has diagnosed many individuals in our community. Families can access no-cost genetic counseling through their team. To get started, ask your doctor to complete the GeneDx referral form and submit it as directed.

    Link to:
    GeneDx Referral Form
    GeneDx Counseling Services
    GeneDx website

  • What Is H-ABC?
    H-ABC (Hypomyelination with Atrophy of the Basal Ganglia and Cerebellum) is a rare neurodegenerative disorder caused by mutations in the TUBB4A gene. It affects myelin formation in the brain, which impacts movement, speech, coordination, and more.

    What to Expect After Diagnosis
    Every diagnosis is different. Some children may show symptoms early, while others experience a slower progression. It's common to feel overwhelmed—know that you're not alone. This journey will include regular visits to specialists, ongoing therapies, and sometimes uncertainty. But with the right support and care team, families find strength.

    Talking to Your Child and Family Members
    Start with honesty and simplicity. Use language your child can understand and give them time to ask questions. Share age-appropriate updates with siblings, and help extended family members understand what your child is going through.

    Link to: TUBB4A Related Leukodystrophy Information Sheet

  • Common Symptoms and Treatments
    H-ABC symptoms vary widely, but may include low muscle tone, spasticity, coordination issues, and communication delays. Treatments focus on symptom management—muscle relaxants, seizure medications, and therapy services are common.

    Link: Signs & Symptoms

    Therapy Options

    • Physical therapy improves strength, flexibility, and mobility.

    • Occupational therapy helps with daily living activities.

    • Speech therapy supports communication and feeding challenges.

    Link to: Functional Therapies for Kids with Neurological Conditions Information Sheet

    Specialists You May Work With
    You may work with pediatric neurologists, developmental pediatricians, physical medicine & rehab doctors (PM&R), and genetic counselors.

    Link: Leukodystrophy Centers & Physicians

    Tracking Progress and Records
    Keep a medical binder or digital file with appointment notes, test results, IEPs, and therapy reports. This helps track changes over time and communicate with your child’s care team.

    Diet, Nutrition & Supplements
    While there’s no specific diet that cures or slows H-ABC, good nutrition supports overall health, muscle tone, and energy levels. Some families work with a nutritionist to ensure proper caloric intake, especially if chewing and swallowing are difficult. A feeding tube may be required in more advanced cases.
    Some physicians may also recommend supplements—such as vitamins, minerals, or omega-3 fatty acids—though these should always be discussed with your care team.

    LINK to Diet & Supplements

  • IEPs and 504 Plans
    Most children with H-ABC qualify for an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 Plan. These plans ensure accommodations in school—like assistive technology, modified lessons, or physical therapy during school hours.

    Link to: Understanding the IEP Process Information Sheet

    Working with Schools and Teachers
    Build relationships with educators early. Share medical documentation and be clear about your child’s needs. Ask for regular updates and communicate often.

    Adaptive Equipment and Accessibility
    Depending on your child’s mobility and coordination, tools like adaptive seating, walkers, communication devices, or custom utensils can help.

    Augmentative and Alternative Communication
    Some children with H-ABC have difficulty speaking, but that doesn’t mean they can’t communicate. Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) includes tools like picture boards, sign language, and speech devices that help children express themselves. AAC gives every child a way to be heard.

    Link to: Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Information Sheet

    Coping with Daily Challenges
    Each day may look different. Take breaks, create a flexible routine, and celebrate small wins. Consider visual schedules or communication boards to make transitions easier.

  • Connecting with Other Families/Caregivers
    Isolation is common—especially with rare conditions. Reach out to the Foundation or join our private Facebook group. You’ll find others who understand the challenges and joys of life with H-ABC.

    Mental Health & Caregiver Support
    Parents often carry emotional stress. Don’t hesitate to speak with a counselor, seek respite care, or talk to others in the community. Caring for yourself helps you care for your child.

    Siblings & the H-ABC Journey
    Siblings may have a wide range of emotions—from protectiveness to confusion or even resentment. Include them in the journey when appropriate, and provide support tailored to their age and feelings.

    Practical Help
    Ask for help when you need it—whether that’s a meal, a ride, or company at appointments. Accepting support is a sign of strength, not weakness.

    Child Neurology Foundation: The Foundation has partnered with the Child Neurology Foundation to help families access vital resources through their Unite Us platform. Contact us at contact@h-abc.org and we will work with you to get answers.
    Link to: Child Neurology Foundation

    Social Media Support Groups

    • TUBBA4A Advocacy : A public Facebook group whichbrings together families, caregivers, and advocates affected by H-ABC and other TUBB4A-related leukodystrophies. This space is dedicated to: sharing experiences; raising awareness; advocating for research funding; building community and hope.

      It’s a place where no one has to navigate this journey alone. To protect privacy and ensure focused support, membership is limited to families with a confirmed diagnosis.

    Click here to request access

    • Parents of h-abc and TUBB4A: A private group in Facebook for parents and caregivers. Membership is limited to families with a confirmed diagnosis.

    Click here to request access

  • Our Journey, Told Through Their Eyes

    Behind every milestone we’ve reached is a child or young adult, a family, and a story that fuels our mission. These stories reflect the strength, challenges, and unwavering love that define the H-ABC community. We invite you to hear directly from the voices that matter most—the families living with H-ABC every day.

    Tilyn’s Story (Coming Soon)

    Ben’s Story

    Bethany’s Story (Coming Soon)

    Camden’s Story

    Elouise’s Story

    Whitney’s Story (Coming Soon)

  • Explore helpful resources designed to support your child’s journey with H-ABC. From communication boards and daily routine charts to therapy guides and other useful templates, these tools are ready to download and use at home or school.

    COMING SOON

    • [Doctor Visit Checklist (PDF)]

    • [Therapy Tracking Log (Printable)]

    • [School Communication Template (DOC)]

    • [Medical Summary Sheet (PDF)]