When I was young, I wanted to see the world, so I went on many adventures and travelled extensively around the world. My favorite parts of the world were/are Asia and Australia.
At some stage I felt like settling for a while. I found a great place and a good job in Thailand. I had the chance to get to know the people, the way of life and a lot more. A few years in the land of smiles changed me and my wish was to live there forever.
In 2010 I got diagnose with Morbus Pompe. To receive the enzyme replacement therapy in Thailand is from the field of medicine absolutely no problem; however, nobody would cover the cost. For my insurance, the cost was too high. After trying many possibilities, I found no other solution than to pack up my belongings and to move back to Switzerland. After living in Thailand for 14 years, my wife and I did so with a heavy heart. In 2014 I could start with the treatment in Switzerland.
At least I can receive the enzyme replacement therapy. From doing some research about Morbus Pompe I learnt that there still are countries that do not support their citizens who are diagnosed with Morbus Pompe.
Therefore, my hope for the future is that all affected people around the world will be able to get support and be able to receive the proper treatment. And my dream is that my wife and I will be able to move to Thailand again because we miss it a lot.
Maybe one day the borders for the support and treatment will be open.
Richard Felber, 54
Switzerland
