Spanish Woman's Fight Against Rare Disease: €17,000 Injections and a Fruit Stand Dream

Conchi's Courage: Battling a Rare Disease and Finding Strength in Spain In a small town in Spain, Conchi Estevez faces a daily battle against familial chylomicronemia syndrome, a rare genetic disorder. This debilitating condition requires her to undergo costly treatments every two weeks, costing a staggering €17,000 per injection. Thankfully, the Spanish social security system covers these expenses, but the emotional and physical strain is immense. "I've spent most of my life in hospitals," Conchi shares, her voice filled with a quiet resilience. "But I'm not giving up." Her doctor, Cristina Trigo, an endocrinologist at Hospital Ribera Povisa, explains the disease's rarity and the high cost of the necessary medication. "This is a rare genetic mutation affecting a protein crucial for breaking down triglycerides," Dr. Trigo explains. Despite the challenges, Conchi's spirit remains unbroken. She has opened a small fruit shop, a testament to her determination and positive outlook. "I can finally eat fruit and vegetables again," she says with a smile, holding up a puppet named Coralita, which she takes to the hospital to cheer up children and adults. Conchi's story is a powerful reminder of the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity and find joy even in the face of great hardship.