Out-of-control cells bring misery

THE disease the Pearson twins suffer from, neurofibromatosis type 1, is an incurable genetic condition that affects 1 in 2,500 people.

Instead of cells growing and multiplying in a carefully controlled way, they grow unchecked, causing tumours to grow along nerves. The severity of the condition can vary considerably from person to person.

Symptoms include soft, non-cancerous bumps under the skin, known as fibromas. In rare cases, the growths can become cancerous.