Ep 31. I Have NF
- TV14
- April 12, 2010
- 42 min
I Have NF, the thirty-first episode of the twelfth season of True Life, is a poignant documentary that explores the lives of three individuals who are afflicted with a rare genetic disorder known as neurofibromatosis (NF). This disorder, which affects approximately one in 3,000 people worldwide, causes the growth of benign or cancerous tumors in the nervous system, skin, and other parts of the body.
The episode follows the journeys of three people from different regions of the United States who suffer from varying degrees of NF. The first person is a 26-year-old woman named Emily, who was diagnosed with NF when she was just six months old. Emily's NF has caused her to develop tumors all over her body, and she has already undergone multiple surgeries to remove them. Despite the physical challenges that she faces on a daily basis, Emily remains optimistic and determined to live a full life.
The second person featured in the episode is a 19-year-old man named Marcus, who also has NF. Marcus has a more severe form of the disorder, which has resulted in numerous tumors on his face and body. As a result of his condition, Marcus has been the victim of bullying and discrimination throughout his life. Despite these challenges, he refuses to be defined by his condition and remains focused on pursuing his dreams.
The final person featured in the episode is a 34-year-old woman named Jessica, who was diagnosed with NF when she was 14 years old. Jessica's NF has caused her to develop tumors in her stomach and other parts of her body, which have required multiple surgeries to remove. Her journey with NF has been particularly challenging, as it has caused her to confront her own mortality and come to terms with the fact that she may not have as much time as she had hoped.
Throughout the episode, viewers will see the struggles and triumphs that these three individuals face as they navigate life with NF. From the physical pain of surgeries to the emotional toll of being stigmatized, the documentary offers a raw and honest portrayal of what it's like to live with this rare disorder. However, despite the challenges they face, each of the individuals featured in the episode displays incredible strength, resilience, and determination to live life to the fullest.
Overall, I Have NF is a moving and inspiring episode of True Life that sheds much-needed light on a little-known disorder and the people who live with it every day. The documentary is a testament to the power of the human spirit, and it will leave viewers with a deeper understanding and appreciation of the challenges faced by those with NF.