quality of life

The EveryLife Foundation for Rare Diseases has launched a scholarship fund in the U.S. to support individuals with rare disorders who are pursuing personal goals through training and education. The initial phase of the five-year, $1-million #RAREis Scholarship Fund will include 32 scholarships — each totaling $5,000 —…

Pompe disease is a rare disease in which glycogen, a complex sugar molecule, builds up in cells and tissues. This buildup interferes with function, especially in muscles. Changes to diet and feeding methods may help alleviate or slow the progression of some disease symptoms. One dietary…

Dara Riva always had a rule that her 10-year-old son could play video games only once a week. But then the COVID-19 pandemic struck, and her perspective changed. Riva’s son, Maximilian, has cystic fibrosis (CF), making him particularly susceptible to COVID-19 and the complications that can arise from it.

Living with the symptoms of a rare disease like Pompe disease can be very stressful. Following are a few tips to minimize stress if you have been diagnosed with Pompe disease. Know Pompe disease and its symptoms Having a good understanding of the nature of Pompe disease symptoms…

Rare genetic diseases such as Pompe disease are difficult to deal with, not only for the patient, but also for caregivers. Here are some tips to ensure you are able to give the best possible care to a person with Pompe disease. Be conscious of your own health Your…

Rare genetic diseases such as Pompe disease pose a challenge in effectively communicating your concerns to the doctor. Here are some tips to make the most of your doctor’s visit. Make sure you consult the right doctor Pompe disease is a rare genetic disorder, so not all doctors are…

Europe’s umbrella organization for 800 rare disease associations has developed a sweeping initiative to help the continent’s 30 million rare disease patients and their caregivers learn about their conditions, find assistance and receive treatment. Eurordis-Rare Diseases Europe hopes to improve the current piecemeal treatment and support program with a holistic,…

Cumbersome security procedures, rising airfares, and shrinking legroom have made commercial air travel difficult enough these days — even for healthy passengers. Imagine how much harder it is for patients with rare diseases who must get to doctors’ appointments or clinical trials that are hundreds of miles away from home.

Madeline Collin, a 24-year-old activist with Gaucher disease, worries that patients like her will suffer deeply if Britain leaves the European Union (EU), as scheduled, at the end of this month. Collin is an expert on the subject. For her University of Bathdissertation, she analyzed Brexit’s long-term impact…