Cathy Hautus lives in Valansart (Chiny) and is launching a real call for help. On April 22, doctors diagnosed him with Cowden syndrome, an extremely rare disease of genetic origin. It manifests itself by disseminated malformations with a tumor-like appearance and an increased risk of developing certain cancers. This Cowden syndrome is characterized by the presence of benign tumors which form on the skin, chest, thyroid, gastrointestinal system, endometrium or even the brain. The prevalence of this disease is unknown but is estimated at 1 in 200,000 individuals. There should therefore be at most around sixty cases in Belgium.
Signs of the disease usually appear between the second and third decades but can appear at any age. Although diagnosed on April 22, Cathy Hautus has been showing signs of the disease for many years. “Of Indian origin, I was adopted at the age of 17 monthsexplains the lady. From then on, my origins are unknown to me and it is undoubtedly certain that one of my biological parents carried the syndrome. When I was still in India, I would have contracted polio. Afterwards, I always had after-effects in one of my legs.”
A disease that cannot be cured
At 12 years old, Gaumaise encountered a thyroid problem and the doctors decided to remove it. At age 30, she developed cervical cancer. “Afterwards, I started getting cysts everywherecontinues the lady. I even had it on my head. My neurologist then advised me to do a genetic test which revealed this famous syndrome. After so many years, we have finally put words to the disease.”
Cowden syndrome unfortunately cannot be cured and it is impossible to slow its progression. “I am currently being followed at the Saint-Luc hospital in Brusselsshe continues. But I need testimonies from people who suffer from this syndrome. I would also like to get in touch with associations or doctors in the province of Luxembourg who are familiar with the disease from afar or closely.”
Despite everything that happens to her, Cathy keeps her spirits up. “I’m used to bad news and I always put things into perspectiveshe emphasizes with a certain positive attitude. I have no choice but to keep my spirits up and enjoy the little joys of life.”. If you are able to help Cathy, do not hesitate to write her an email at [email protected].
