Sathish Telukram, a husband and father of three, was diagnosed with Dercum’s disease in May 2021.

This rare disorder, characterised by multiple painful fatty tissue growths (lipomas), has drastically altered his life.
With only three other cases registered in South Africa, Sathish’s diagnosis makes him the fourth known patient in the country suffering from this debilitating illness.

Globally, only 200 000 people are diagnosed with Dercum’s disease.

Nicole’s fight for awareness and research

Nicole, Sathish’s wife, has taken on the challenge of raising awareness and funds for Dercum’s disease research.

At 37, she runs a food truck, donating all proceeds to the cause. Now, she is preparing for a more ambitious endeavour – a walk from Johannesburg to Cape Town.

“The purpose is to raise awareness and funds for research into the illness. I am not just doing this for my husband, but for everyone who suffers from a rare illness and for their caretakers,” Nicole explained.

“Even doctors sometimes have misconceptions about Dercum’s disease. There is a lack of knowledge,” she added.

A journey of hope and determination

Nicole decided to take on this extreme challenge when a man she saw on TV walking from Kenya to Cape Town inspired her.

Her journey of 30 days will take her through several towns, including Vereeniging, Kimberley and Welkom.
She plans to share her progress on social media.

“I am not in a race. I will not rush myself,” she said.

How to support Nicole’s cause

Nicole welcomes donations in various forms, from financial contributions to essential items like caps, trainers, socks, or sponsorships.

Businesses can advertise their brands during her journey by sponsoring her walk.

Sponsorship starts from R1 000. Nicole will wear a company’s branded T-shirt for a day and promote their business to her followers via livestream and in-person interactions.

Anyone wishing to donate or sponsor Nicole can contact her at 074 454 5848 or 083 617 1434. Email her at dercumsfamily@gmail.com

Nicole has also set up a BackaBuddy campaign: Dercum.

A husband’s struggle

Sathish’s journey with Dercum’s disease began with seemingly harmless lumps on his arms and legs during his teenage years.

As he grew older, the lumps became larger and more painful. Despite consulting multiple doctors, this condition was often dismissed as harmless fatty tissue.

It was not until a specialist neurologist conducted extensive research that Sathish was diagnosed with Dercum’s disease.

Now, Sathish faces daily challenges, from debilitating pain to reduced mobility.

Tasks such as getting out of bed or playing with his children have become monumental.

He relies on a strong schedule of seven pain medications to manage his symptoms.

Facing discrimination

In addition to his health struggles, Sathish has faced discrimination in the workplace.

After his diagnosis, a former employer accused him of lying about his condition and dismissed him for insubordination.

Despite medical reports stating he is unfit to work, the employer claimed his condition does not qualify as a disability.

The Telukram family has been in a legal battle for three years, seeking justice for dismissal.

A mission for the rare disease community

Nicole is a proud member of Rare Diseases South Africa and is determined to be a voice for the rare disease community.

“I pray my small voice echoes louder than thunder so that everyone hears us in the fight for rare disease awareness,” she said.

Nicole’s determination to shine a light on Dercum’s disease and other rare conditions is an inspiring testament to the power of love and advocacy.