1. can you introduce yourself?

My name is Gerrit Rauws. I am the Director of the health programme of the King Baudouin Foundation. We help philanthropists achieve their goals and projects for the common good. In addition, we are also developing projects aimed at improving the health care and quality of life of patients. Within the King Baudouin Foundation, the rare diseases and orphan medicines Fund is also very effective in offering a consultation platform to active actors in Belgium to improve the diagnosis and treatment of rare diseases.

2. Why is the King Baudouin Foundation interested in genomics? 

Most rare diseases have a genetic origin. A better knowledge of genomics will undoubtedly lead to better diagnosis and may guide the development of new drugs. The FRB finances scientific research on the genetic origin of pancreatic cancer and several rare diseases. But we are also interested in the societal aspects of genome sequencing. At the request of the Minister of health, we have organized a dialogue with the citizens on the possibilities of genome sequencing, but also on the issues that arise in the area of confidentiality and solidarity.

3. Why do you support the project 101 genomes Marfan of the Fondation 101 Génomes ?

Ludivine Verboogen and Romain Alderweireldt offered us their project in a very convincing, innovative and very relevant way with a lot of dynamism. They have been surrounded by high-level researchers, as well as representatives of patient associations and many experts. I am very impressed with their systematic approach. Through the Fonds 101 Génomes , chaired by Professor Anne de Paepe, we are trying to help them achieve this project as quickly as possible.