FCS Awareness Day: Highlighting the Struggles and Triumphs of Those Affected by Triglyceride Disorders

Recognizing FCS Awareness Day: A Day for Patients and Caregivers

On November 6, 2026, the Foundation for Triglyceride Disorders will celebrate FCS Awareness Day, an annual event aimed at promoting awareness of Familial Chylomicronemia Syndrome (FCS) and related triglyceride disorders. This significant observance takes place on the first Friday of November and highlights the experiences of patients and caregivers living with these rare conditions.

Chris Brine, Managing Director of the Foundation, emphasizes the importance of putting a human face on FCS, a disorder that many are unfamiliar with. "FCS Awareness Day puts a human face on a condition most people have never heard of. Behind every statistic is a family managing an unpredictable disease. Our hope this November 6 is that more people find the resources and support we've built for them." This statement encapsulates the aim of the day: to reach out to clinicians, policymakers, and the public, fostering an understanding of FCS and the ongoing struggles of those affected by it.

Understanding FCS

Familial Chylomicronemia Syndrome is a hereditary disorder characterized by the body’s inability to break down triglycerides, resulting in dangerously high levels of fat in the blood and a continual risk of severe pancreatitis. The Foundation, which has rebranded from the FCS Foundation, also provides resources for individuals with multifactorial chylomicronemia syndrome (MCS), severe hypertriglyceridemia (sHTG), and triglyceride-induced pancreatitis. Despite advancements in treatment options, awareness and accessibility remain critical issues.

Living with FCS can be described as a struggle. Rick Lunceford, who has managed this condition for over a decade, articulated the immense challenges it presents. He stated, "I would use the phrase brutally debilitating to describe FCS. It's like walking through a muddy, plowed field with a time bomb ticking that's attached to you, and you can't get far enough away to prevent the explosion from affecting you." Fortunately, treatments have improved significantly; Lunceford shared that his triglyceride levels decreased dramatically from over 7,000 to 66 due to available therapies. "There are treatments now available, which will vastly improve your life," he assured.

Similarly, Lynne Saremi, whose husband Fred battled FCS, spoke of the community's role in their journey. "When Fred was first diagnosed, there was no medication for this. Now there are two approved treatments," she noted. Her words reflect hope for families navigating the challenges of FCS: "The way you feel today is not the way you'll always feel."

How to Get Involved

The Foundation for Triglyceride Disorders encourages individuals to participate in FCS Awareness Day by sharing personal stories using the hashtag #FCSAwarenessDay. Visiting TGDisorders.com is also recommended for those seeking to learn more about FCS and related disorders.

About the Foundation for Triglyceride Disorders

The Foundation for Triglyceride Disorders is a nonprofit organization dedicated to deepening the understanding of triglyceride disorders, including FCS, MCS, sHTG, and triglyceride-induced pancreatitis. By focusing on education, connection, awareness, and support, the Foundation aims to create a global network that links patients, caregivers, clinicians, and advocates. Their ongoing mission is to improve the lives of those affected by these challenging conditions. Those interested in learning more can visit TGDisorders.com.