Charmaine’s Rare Condition
A woman with thousands of tumours all over her body has revealed the debilitating impact her rare condition has had on her life. Charmaine has growths all over her body, diagnosed with NF-1 neurofibromatosis, a genetic condition causing tumours to grow along nerves.
She is covered in tumours all over her body, including her face, arms, and legs, hindering her ability to walk for more than a few minutes.
Charmaine’s Struggle
- Charmaine’s condition developed at 13 years old and was passed on from her mother.
- She expresses that her mother’s condition is not as severe as hers.
- Over the years, the number and size of tumours on her body have increased significantly.
- Some of the tumours make it difficult for her to wear tight clothes, especially due to a large growth on her leg.
Charmaine’s Experience with NF-1 Neurofibromatosis
According to the NHS, NF1 is a condition present at birth, with symptoms developing gradually over time. The tumours associated with NF1 are typically non-cancerous but can lead to various symptoms affecting different parts of the body.
- Symptoms of NF1 can include neurofibromas, birthmarks, freckles in unusual places, and issues with bones, eyes, and the nervous system.
- NF1 is caused by a faulty gene, with a 50% chance of passing it on to offspring if one parent has the condition.
- While there is no cure for NF1, treatment options such as surgery, medication, physiotherapy, and pain management can help manage the symptoms.
Charmaine’s Struggles with Mobility
Charmaine’s condition has severely impacted her mobility, with the tumours on her leg making it difficult for her to walk without assistance.
She shares that walking for even a short period causes her significant discomfort and fatigue, affecting her balance and increasing the risk of falls.
Viewers have expressed sympathy for Charmaine’s situation, highlighting the challenges she faces on a daily basis.