PIKU stuffed animal and children’s tale

PKU, the incurable amino acid-metabolism disorder, if untreated, significantly lowers the IQ of children in the first year. If treatment only starts after the age of 3, the formation of intellectual disability is practically unavoidable. If the disease has been discovered on time, with strict diet and regular control, a full life can be lived. This diet is indescribably difficult for a child. They have trouble understanding that they cannot accept a chocolate bar, not even a soda, from their best friend, because it could be very harmful.

We created a mascot and a children’s tale depicting PIKU, who can be their constant companion and friend while they navigate trying to maintain their life-long, restrictive diet. The reception at the Christmas event held for the families of PKU Association has far exceeded our expectations. The author of the children’s tale, Panna Balázsy, also attended the event. The tale has been followed by a coloring book and online Piku tales published in a monthly basis.