PN MP calls for more support services and research into Scleroderma
Parliament yesterday paid tribute to the mother of PN MP Ryan Callus, Antoinette, who passed away from Scleroderma recently.
Scleroderma is an autoimmune, rheumatic, and chronic disease that affects the body by hardening connective tissue.
There are two major forms of the disease. Systemic scleroderma is a serious condition, while localised scleroderma carries a good prognosis and normal lifespan. In children, localised scleroderma is three times more common than the systemic form of the disease.
PN MP Ryan Callus said that there are around 60-80 people who suffer from this disease in Malta. He said that his mother was a nurse who taught him “about compassion for the sick. The disease starts by affecting your hand function, he said, and could become more severe if it affects the organs. There is no effective treatment at the moment. As a legislator I appeal for investment into research of this disease. I appeal to the government to offer dedicated assistance through home nurses and in hospital for those with more severe cases.”
Mr Callus thanked his family, as well as those present, for showing their support, and the doctors and nurses who helped his family.
PL Whip Godfrey Farrugia said that he did not know MP Callus’ mother well “but we have spoken about her health in the past, and I extend my condolences to him and his family.”
PN Leader Simon Busuttil also extended his condolences to Ryan Callus and his family. He said that she was a nurse, “and one immediately understands that she is the kind of person who dedicates their lives to others. We are speaking about someone who deserves our respect for this. Antoinette suffered from a rare illness.”