A renewed investigation into a mysterious neurological syndrome affecting New Brunswick residents has brought hope to patients who have long sought answers about the baffling illness. The syndrome, which emerged in early 2020, has now impacted over 400 individuals, with symptoms ranging from memory loss and balance issues to seizures and intense nerve pain.
For Melissa Hawkes, 27, the nightmare began during a visit to a friend’s house in March 2021 when she unexpectedly collapsed and experienced her first seizure. What initially seemed like mild fatigue and nausea quickly spiraled into severe health issues, including a second seizure, nerve damage, and necrotizing gingivitis. Her fiancée, Sarah Nesbitt, has also been affected by the syndrome.
The provincial government initially closed the case in 2022, citing a report that attributed the majority of cases to alternative diagnoses, including Alzheimer’s disease, various dementias, and cancer. However, the recent rise in reported cases and mounting public pressure prompted the newly elected Liberal government to revisit the issue.
Health Minister John Dornan emphasized the need for a thorough and scientific investigation, acknowledging that no clear treatment path has been identified. “We haven’t found a common denominator yet,” Dornan said, adding that the new review will look “deeper and more broadly” into potential causes, including environmental factors.
Dr. Alier Marrero, the neurologist who first raised the alarm about the syndrome, has provided access to his files to provincial and federal health teams, including experts at the Public Health Agency of Canada. Federal Health Minister Mark Holland called the collaboration a “great effort” toward understanding the condition and identifying possible solutions.
Patients like Hawkes have urged the government to investigate environmental toxins, particularly the herbicide glyphosate, which Marrero flagged as a potential factor in January 2023. Dornan said the investigation will proceed methodically, first identifying potential commonalities before delving into environmental causes.
Hawkes expressed mixed emotions about the renewed inquiry, calling it a “good first step” but voicing fears about the delays. “People have died, and I’m terrified that it’s taking so long,” she said.
For Nesbitt, some symptoms have eased with lifestyle and dietary changes, as well as activities like video games to improve coordination. While seizures and nerve tingling persist, she can now stand for longer periods and has noticed an overall improvement in her condition. “A lot of things got better. I’m just not better yet,” Nesbitt said.
The couple relocated to Canaan Station, N.B., to focus on recovery. Despite the progress, they stress the urgency of the investigation and the need for concrete action. “They’re listening,” Nesbitt said. “Now we need to see the action.”
The investigation highlights broader concerns about healthcare transparency, environmental safety, and the role of government in addressing public health crises. Patients, experts, and health officials alike are looking to the renewed inquiry as an opportunity to shed light on the mystery and, ultimately, to find solutions that restore hope and health to those affected.
