Henri Sannier, the renowned former presenter of France Television, has shared his inspiring story of resilience following his diagnosis with chronic polyradiculoneuropathy, which he attributes to a severe cycling accident. This devastating event occurred on December 19, 2020, when, during a ride with his wife Sylviane, he collided with a car after missing a stop sign. While initially relieved to escape with only bruises, Sannier's condition deteriorated, prompting numerous consultations with health professionals.
It wasn't until February 4, 2021, after feeling increasingly weak and fatigued, when doctors diagnosed him with Guillain-Barré syndrome. Later, at the Pitié-Salpêtrière hospital, he was determined to have the rare autoimmune condition chronic polyradiculoneuropathy instead. "I was losing control of my body, and the simplest tasks became Herculean challenges. I lost 14 kilos and avoided mirrors because I felt unrecognizable," Sannier recounted, reflecting on his physical decline.
The transformative treatment involved plasmapheresis performed every eight weeks, which saw Sannier's blood processed to remove harmful antibodies. "My antibodies were fighting against me, so the treatment was about replacing my blood plasma with healthy components to reverse the damage," the former presenter explained. With rigorous rehabilitation, Sannier gradually regained his strength, with hope ignited by every small success.
One of his most cherished memories was the special moment he made his first steps again at the end of 2021, accidentally rising from his medical bed to retrieve medication. "I took three steps, and succeeded! My grandchildren, not knowing I could walk, cheered for me – it was the most beautiful day of my life," he shared. His sense of humor and positivity became his strongest allies during this challenging phase, as he humorously noted his new dietary choices due to the inability to cut meat: "I guess I’m becoming vegetarian!"
Throughout this difficult battle, the unwavering support from his wife, Sylviane, played a pivotal role. Sannier referred to her as the rock of his recovery, stating, "She pulled me out of hell". Amidst the struggles, he highlighted the emotional toll the ordeal took on her, as her devotion led to her own moments of despair. "She did everything without complaint, but eventually, she faltered too," he said, adding, "This experience was both challenging and unifying for our relationship. I saw her strength reflected back to me, which bolstered my will to continue fighting."
Sannier's openness about his struggle emphasizes the importance of family support when facing life-altering illnesses. "Without my family, I don't know where I would be. They are my motivation to keep going, even during the darkest days," he remarked. His positive outlook—"You must not anchor yourself to the thought of illness; instead, keep battling—has inspired many to pursue hope amid adversity.
Today, having regained significantly more independence, Sannier has taken on writing and reflection as avenues to share his experiences, showing others how to navigate such challenges with grace. He published his book, Le jour où j'ai réappris à marcher, to convey his tale of survival and resilience, encouraging everyone, especially those with similar ailments, to cherish life’s simple gifts and maintain relationships.
Throughout interviews and personal accounts, Sannier continues to spread his powerful message: embrace hope, stay positive, and keep moving forward through adversity. Despite his limitations, he is determined to continue living fully and joyously, ensuring every moment is embraced with gratitude and zeal.