I was diagnosed with LAM in 2006. LAM is a rare, progressive lung disease affecting women. The diagnosis was a shock and the illness changed my life personally and professionally - I had to make many changes and adjustments and to make new life plans. In 2008 I published a book - Illness - about this experience (https://www.amazon.co.uk/Illness-Art-Living-Havi-Carel/dp/1844651525). 

LAM also changed the life of my husband, Samir, and of my family. 
We got married the year after my diagnosis and went on to become parents to two crazy boys. We are not an ordinary family: we have to do things differently, plan more, do less, and have piles of positivity and resilience, even when things are tough and medical problems arise. There are many things I can't do, many obstacles to face, and many oxygen cylinders for him to carry (!) but we also daily enjoy what I still can do.

I was lucky that a treatment that halted the progression of LAM was discovered shortly after my diagnosis. I have been on this treatment since. And although I have limited mobility and use oxygen, I am still here. Becuase LAM is so rare, research funding is hard to come by and patient support is done by us patients raising money for LAM Action. The support is a lifeline to newly diagnosed patients and a great tool for sharing information, asking advice, and getting support from fellow lammies.

This year, to mark the 16th year since my diagnosis -  going beyond the ten year prognosis I was given - Samir is going to take part in the Ride London 100 mile challenge. He will attempt to complete the ride in under 5 hours. Less impressively, my son Joel (who is 9) and I (with oxygen and on an e-bike) will attempt 4 laps of the family ride (of 8 miles), hopefully covering 32 miles.

If you can spare any digital change to support us and LAM Action and to partake in our cycling adventure, we'd be very grateful. Thank you!

PS please make sure you tick the gift aid option if you’re a UK tax payer!