A 6-year-old boy chews walls and wires due to a rare disease (5 photos)

Six-year-old Stephen from Scotland has severe autism and Pick's disease, a condition that causes cravings for non-food items. He breaks walls in his bedroom, chews on exposed electrical wires, and eats dirt and sand.





28-year-old mother Lee and 29-year-old father Stephen Murphy can't leave their son unattended for a minute.

Lee said: "We nicknamed him Stephen the Destroyer. In the living room, we only have two sofas and a TV – that's all. In the kitchen, all the cupboards are locked."



Leslie McCrann, Stephen's grandmother, described the family's struggles: "We're afraid the window will break and he'll jump. It's tough for me. They're my family, and I'd do anything for them. But it's also incredibly stressful for me."

She noted that the stress of caring for Stephen has seriously impacted his parents' relationship.

"Lee had to quit her job four years ago due to a very difficult situation. You can't take your eyes off Stephen—he's always up to something."





Murphy was recently evicted from his rented home.

Four months ago, the boy was diagnosed with Pick's disease. His parents contacted North Lanarkshire Council asking for safe housing for their son.

The family is looking for a council house without stairs. This is important to prevent Stephen from falling and injuring himself.



A North Lanarkshire Council spokesperson stated: "We understand Murphy's situation and are actively working with social services to meet the family's needs. Appropriate housing is extremely scarce in Cumbernauld. Most homes in the area are owned by housing associations, with only a few council-owned. With the family's consent, we are working with our landlord partners to explore all possible options. While this is our priority, finding a suitable home may take some time."