‘Pompe House’, our IPA member from Japan has informed the IPA on the situation of Pompe patients after the earthquake, Tsunami and the severe problems in the nuclear power plants.
The association stated that around 60 patients are known in Japan and 28 of them are member of Pompe House. Pompe House knows that all Pompe patients, members and non members, in Japan are safe and can receive their treatment with enzyme replacement therapy smoothly.
The devastation, loss and the uncertain situation many Japanese people have to live with right now, has a very high emotional, psychological, social and economical impact on the people in Japan. It will take time for the country and people to recover the grief.
The association also said that efforts at supporting and rebuilding the daily lives of earthquake-affected people are coming into reality little by little. People living in Tohoku district, the devastated area, have already moved to shelters. Currently prefab homes for evacuees are being built by the government and also offers of assistance have come from around the world. Japanese people greatly appreciate it.
We will keep you updated on the situation of Pompe patients in Japan.
Author: Ai Nogami, on behalf of Pompe House in Japan
Photo: Lee-Anne Schoneveld van der Linde