Francois​

“You could say that I won the genetic lottery. Only about 350 people in Canada have Fabry, a rare inherited progressive disease without a cure. It affects many parts of the body: The kidneys, heart, brain and nervous system… It’s so rare that it’s often misdiagnosed. I’ve known about my condition since I was a teenager but never really worried about it because my symptoms were minimal and it’s known to be fatal only later in life, say 50 or 60 years old (on average) for men. It’s a lifetime away when you’re 14… only problem is now I’m 53.
 

In summer 2015 I was in the best shape of my life, feeling great, biking three to four times a week and getting intravenous enzyme replacement therapy every two weeks (the only treatment currently available for Fabry). It was on one of those bike rides that I passed out. I hit the pavement hard. The results weren’t pretty: 3 broken ribs, a broken scapula and very serious heart complications. That day was a harsh reminder of the seriousness of Fabry.

Thankfully the skilled and knowledgeable doctors and nurses at The Moncton Hospital were able to revive me and get me a pacemaker to control my heart rhythm. They saved my life.” – Francois

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Right now, you can ensure everyone in our community receives the best care possible by giving to the Friends of The Moncton Hospital Foundation. 

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To make a donation to the current campaign in honour of someone you know or someone you want to give special recognition to - a loved one, a frontline worker, the healthcare team, a volunteer -  click the ‘Donate’ button below. On the "Donation Amount" page, select "I am supporting: Current Campaign”.