Father-son adventure: new trip to Morocco to rediscover it!

Father-son adventure: new trip to Morocco to rediscover it!

Today, May 30, 2025, the moving story of Sacha, a 26-year-old man suffering from Williams-Beuren syndrome, will be told in the French documentary series “13h15 le samedi”. This report is a continuation of the narrative of his life, which began 13 years ago, and shows the challenges and successes on his journey to independence. Sacha was initially supported by his father Franck, who performed his role with dedication and sensitivity. This part deals with Sacha's current living situation; he now lives in a residential facility for adults with disabilities and has made close friends with other residents, but misses daily contact with his father.

The relationship between Sacha and Franck remains strong, despite the geographical distance. Franck is planning a new trip to Morocco and the Sahara, which is described as an important opportunity to rediscover and further strengthen the bond between father and son. This project not only symbolizes a continuation of Sacha's personal development sparked by early travels, but also provides an emotional platform for both of them to view their relationship in a new light. This takes up Sacha's interest in trains, which inspired his father to use travel experiences as a means to support Sacha's development. The report so far was prepared by Jean-Sébastien Desbordes, Matthieu Martin, Anthony Santoro and Emmanuel Rivain for Nania Films and shows the deep emotions associated with this special family bond.

The Williams-Beuren syndrome

Williams-Beuren syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that affects approximately 1 in 20,000 newborns. It is characterized by cognitive deficits and can lead to extensive developmental impairments. In addition, many people who suffer from such illnesses rely on support in order to lead as self-determined a life as possible. Williams France offers information and resources for those affected and their relatives to make it easier to deal with this diagnosis and to provide help in a wide range of life situations.

Around four million people in Germany live with a rare disease, which corresponds to 7.5 percent of the total population. A disease is considered rare if no more than five in 10,000 people are affected. According to estimates, there are a total of around 8,000 rare diseases, with around 80 percent being genetic. Many of these diseases cannot be cured and often lead to a high level of suffering. NDR reports that the path to diagnosis is often long and complicated, which represents a significant challenge for those affected.

Support for those affected

There are over 30 specialized centers for rare diseases in Germany that enable interdisciplinary exchange between different specialist areas. These centers do not provide acute or emergency care, but can provide essential assistance with diagnosis and treatment. The registration process varies, documents required typically include doctor's referrals, registration forms and detailed medical history. It can take months or years before an examination can take place at a center, which often puts additional pressure on those affected.

Self-help groups and patient organizations are also important contact points that offer those affected support and exchange, although the search for suitable help is often associated with major challenges. Sacha's stories and many others show how important such support systems are in order to enable those affected and their relatives to live as full a life as possible.