Gilles' openness about her illness highlights the importance of awareness regarding rare diseases that often go unnoticed.
Paroxysmal dyskinesia, affecting a small percentage of the population, is often underdiagnosed, leading to a lack of understanding and support for those affected.
Gilles' story may encourage more individuals with invisible illnesses to share their experiences, fostering a sense of community and support.
Increased awareness about paroxysmal dyskinesia could lead to better diagnostic practices and treatment options for patients.
Ève Gilles Opens Up About Living with Paroxysmal Dyskinesia
In a heartfelt revelation, Ève Gilles, the newly crowned Miss France 2024, shared her battle with paroxysmal dyskinesia, a rare neurological disorder, during a video interview with Konbini on October 26. The 21-year-old beauty queen from Nord-Pas-de-Calais, who had kept her condition private until now, expressed her desire to inspire others facing similar invisible illnesses. Gilles explained that she first noticed something was wrong at the age of eight while playing basketball, experiencing a lack of control over her body during certain movements.
After years of uncertainty, she was diagnosed with paroxysmal dyskinesia at 14, a condition characterized by sudden, involuntary movements that can affect various parts of the body. "These movements can last between 25 and 40 seconds, and vary in intensity," Gilles detailed. Despite her struggles, she emphasized that her illness would not define her or hinder her dreams of becoming Miss France. She revealed that she experienced seizures even during the competition, but she has learned to manage her condition effectively with medication since the age of 14.
