“Up to 30 pills a day”: Mucopatient from Ostend testifies

Erik Vermeersch is 30 years old, he is the manager of an aviation company in Ostend, and he suffers from cystic fibrosis. He combines a 7-day job with daily hours of treatment for his illness.

“Most patients spend several hours a day treating their disease. That takes a lot of time and energy.” -You also have to take a lot of pills? “That’s right, an average of 20 to 30 pills a day. And also a few hours of treatment, aerosol and physiotherapy, that’s all part of it.”

“Make dreams come true”

This year, many mayors are supporting the mucos association’s campaign. They talk to patients and buy the now well-known colorful socks for the benefit of scientific research. The mayor of Ostend also did this. Both he and the cystic fibrosis patients themselves have a clear message.

“The fact that we as cystic fibrosis patients are used to fighting for our health, against the disease, gives us the mindset or the attitude to fight for other things in our lives. It is not because we have a serious life-threatening disease that we can fulfill our ambitions and dreams in our lives.”

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Life expectancy higher

The life expectancy of cystic fibrosis patients is increasing, thanks to new medication. That is a very positive development, says Erik. It is a pity, he says, that the very expensive medication for young children, among others, will not be reimbursed for the time being. Because it greatly improves quality of life and life expectancy.

“Definitely. That has been proven. I can testify to this and many other patients that it is essential to guarantee our health and prevent further deterioration. There are still many patients who do not have access to that medication, but we are in a positive trend.”