Pope's historic meeting with Huntington's patients offered ray of hope

[rug]

By Hannah Brockhaus

Vatican City, May 19, 2017 / 03:24 pm (CNA/EWTN News).- Pope Francis’ gathering this week with a group of Huntington’s disease patients was a major inspiration for those seeking to increase awareness and research about the condition.

“In the U.S. this is HD Awareness Month, so we're working on just telling the story of families affected by Huntington’s disease, and this brings it to a whole different platform,” said Louise Vetter, CEO of the Huntington’s Disease Society of America.

“Really, with Pope Francis setting the tone I think it offers so much hope and inspiration.”

On Thursday, Pope Francis became the first world leader to publically recognize the plight of those suffering from Huntington’s disease, as he welcomed an audience of some 150 people with the condition. The pontiff stayed for nearly an hour after the audience to offer each individual a hug and a greeting.

http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/popes-historic-meeting-with-huntingtons-patients-offered-ray-of-hope-85730/

[No Vested Interest]

1. A family I know is afflicted with Huntington's Disease. It is devastating.

Those afflicted often don't know until about the age of 40, when they have already established families, thus bringing the disease to another generation.

Once families realize that the Huntington's gene is present, individuals must decide whether or not to be tested for it, knowing there is no cure, if they are found to carry the gene.

Aside from the obvious physical debilities, the disease can adversely affect the person's impulse control, so that they may act out in ways they might not have before.

[rug]

2. I'm glad he's drawing attention to it.