Hanneke Peperkamp from Gassel has lived without a stomach for seven years after doctors advised its removal because she carries the hereditary CDH1 mutation, which greatly increases the risk of stomach and breast cancer. Her mother, who also carried the mutation, died of cancer. Peperkamp's oesophagus is now connected directly to her small intestine.

She has to eat small portions throughout the day, chew food thoroughly and be careful with drinking and sleeping because food and bile can flow back. Her blood sugar can also drop sharply after eating, so she carries biscuits, chocolate and sugar. She says the effects have reduced her freedom and spontaneity, although she still works as a teacher in Cuijk and says she is doing relatively well. She is also concerned that her daughter may carry the mutation; the girl is not yet 18 and can be tested later.