Anaïs Favron has opened up about her recent diagnosis of Hashimoto's disease, shedding light on the autoimmune condition and its impact on her life. Speaking candidly on Rythme on February 19, 2023, she detailed the struggle she faced before receiving her diagnosis.
Initially attributing her symptoms to fatigue or possibly the onset of menopause, Favron shared, "Ça a commencé par des douleurs aux articulations. Après ça, il y a de la fatigue. Après ça, des petits trous de mémoire. Après ça, je perdais un peu mes cheveux. Après ça, j’avais des douleurs musculaires. Après ça, j’avais des sautes d’humeur, je me suis mise à pleurer deux, trois fois par jour. […] Jusqu’à être très, très fatiguée. Jusqu’à ne plus être capable de marcher jusqu’au métro parce que mes muscles devenaient en roche. Jusqu’à dormir des nuits de 10 heures en faisant des siestes de trois, quatre heures."
Despite feeling unwell, she continued to work diligently, maintaining her role on air. This unwavering dedication was particularly challenging for her medical team, who were surprised she could perform her daily tasks under such conditions. To highlight the irony of her situation, Favron said, "C'est quoi les chances qu'une fille qui capote sur le Japon depuis toute sa vie, pogne une maladie qui a le nom d'un docteur japonais qui l'a découvert?" This lighthearted comment came after returning from Japan, showing how humor can juxtapose even serious realities.
After undergoing several tests, Favron received the diagnosis of Hashimoto's disease, which attacks the thyroid. This condition requires her to take medications for the rest of her life to maintain energy levels. "Moi, j'ai probablement trop attendu, ce qui fait qu'au lieu de pouvoir réparer ma glande thyroïde, j'en ai pu. Et je dois prendre des médicaments pour tout le restant de ma vie, si je veux avoir de l'énergie," she explained, emphasizing the importance of listening to one’s body and being proactive about health.
Her path to diagnosis wasn't easy, leading to moments of serious concern. "J'ai été un week-end à surveiller mon cœur, parce que les doses de médicaments que je prenais étaient tellement fortes, vu l'état dans lequel j'étais, que ça pouvait être dangereux pour mon cœur," she recounted. The gravity of her health condition prompted her to reflect on the lessons learned and the message she wanted to convey to the audience.
Favron's openness creates awareness around autoimmune diseases, highlighting how symptoms can significantly affect one’s quality of life. By sharing her experience, she encourages others who might be facing similar situations to listen to their bodies and not hesitate to seek medical attention.
Towards the end of her segment, Favron reaffirms her commitment to managing her health. "Là, ça fait dix jours que je prends mes médicaments. Je vais mieux au niveau de l'énergie," she said, sparking hope among listeners who may relate to her struggles. Her story is not just one of pain, but also resilience and empowerment.
The people of Quebec send their best wishes for her health and recovery. Favron's candid discussion not only resonates with her followers but stands as encouragement for those enduring similar health challenges. It’s always important to acknowledge and address personal health issues, and her message serves as a reminder of the power of vulnerability.