High praise has been heaped on those involved in staging a photographic exhibition, currently on display at the Millennium Court in Portadown, designed to raise awareness of haemochromatosis.
The ‘Overloaded Exhibition’ photographic display derives its name from the fact that genetic haemochromatosis – a condition disproportionately affecting people in Northern Ireland – is characterised by excess iron, or iron overload.
According to Haemochromatosis UK, symptoms of the condition can include arthritis, chronic fatigue, abdominal pain, neurological and psychiatric disorders, sexual disorders, absent or scanty menstrual periods, early menopause, bronzing of the skin, diabetes, adrenal issues, liver disorders, liver cancer, sepsis, bacterial infections, and decrease in body hair.
Lord Mayor Stephen Moutray couldn’t speak highly enough of the exhibition, describing it as “fantastic”.
He told the monthly meeting of ABC Council: “It was used to highlight the fact that so many people, across Northern Ireland in particular, have it. It’s estimated possibly one in 10 people has this disorder and it’s often known in places as the ‘Celtic Curse’.
“So, I just wanted to say I thought it was a very worthwhile afternoon. I saw several elected members from different parties there. It was great to see them, and I would encourage anyone who has free time to go to Millennium Court. It runs until March 20.”
‘We Are Overloaded’ is a collaborative photography project by Haemochromatosis UK and Pulitzer Prize-winning photojournalist, Cathal McNaughton, aiming to shed light on the experiences of those with genetic haemochromatosis.
This exhibition comes as Haemochromatosis UK is offering free genetic testing to selected postcodes in Portadown.
