Freya lives with Hereditary Fructose Intolerance (HFI), a rare genetic condition that means her body cannot process fructose or certain other sugars. Holly, a HFI advocate, wrote the story with input from Dannie, Freya’s mum, who describes how Freya’s early symptoms were repeatedly misunderstood. This led to severe illness, frequent hospital visits, and even accusations that the family was fabricating or inducing illness. It was only after a genetic test confirmed HFI that Freya’s condition was properly recognised. Once diagnosed, a strict fructose-free diet quickly transformed her health.

The story highlights the dangers of delayed diagnosis in rare conditions, and the importance of listening carefully when something doesn’t feel right.

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