We are Genomics England and our vision is to create a world where everyone benefits from genomic healthcare. Introducing our refreshed podcast identity: Behind the Genes, previously known as The G Word. Join us every fortnight, where we cover everything from the latest in cutting-edge research to real-life stories from those affected by rare conditions and cancer. With thoughtful conversations, we take you behind the science. You can also tune in to our Genomics 101 explainer series which breaks down complex terms in under 10 minutes.
Episodes
Wednesday Apr 07, 2021
Wednesday Apr 07, 2021
"At first, it's all a big whirlwind and you can't process the big bombshell that you've been given. Suddenly, it turns out the life you had mapped out is not going to be like that at all. Almost overnight, you become a geneticist, you become a physiotherapist, you become a nurse, you become a dietitian. You are now the expert."
Shelley is mum to Fraser, whose medical journey has been tough because he didn't have typical symptoms for any known conditions. But genetic testing found he had an alteration in one of his genes, leading to his diagnosis of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD). As a family they later joined the 100,000 Genomes Project to find out why Fraser's non-textbook symptoms meant he didn't fall neatly into a faster DMD diagnosis.
In this episode, Chris and Shelley talk about the lived experience of families managing a rare disease, climbing Snowdon, and being active in supporting disability rights.