Every battle counts
Dave’s story
My name’s Dave and I’m from Gloucestershire. In 2021, at the peak of my fitness career as a personal trainer, my life took a brutal turn; I had a heart attack. No one saw it coming, least of all me. It was caused by an undiagnosed heart defect, the kind of hidden threat you never expect when you’re fit and active. Relentless fatigue, dizzy spells and severe breathlessness followed, but no one could explain my persistent symptoms. I became caught in a frustrating tug-of-war between cardiac and respiratory specialists, with no clear answers in sight. I was eventually diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis earlier this year. Here’s my story..
This year I was finally given a diagnosis that changed everything. Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), a mountain I never expected to climb. I was told I had severe scarring on both lungs and was immediately prescribed antifibrotic medication.
Having a terminal illness forced me to re-evaluate my life. I had to adapt, not just for myself but also for my wife Cara and our daughters, to make sure we had the best quality of life, together.
We love to go for countryside adventures, not just to escape, but also as a powerful reminder that life is still beautiful. No matter how challenging, or how many limitations there might be, I’ve learnt to embrace life in a way I never have before. I cherish the countryside air, the feel of my wife’s hand in mine, the laughter of my children.
This year I was finally given a diagnosis that changed everything.
I see myself as someone who refuses to let my illness define my life. I choose to seek out joy, to embrace adventure, to fight for every beautiful moment I still have. I urge you all – whatever your struggles may be – to do the same.