New to LAM
Being told you have LAM affects everyone differently. Most are overwhelmed, in a state of shock and feel numb. Many people also experience a great deal of fear, anger and frustration. For others it comes as a relief that finally they have an answer to why they have been feeling so poorly for so long.
These feelings are common and are a natural part of coming to terms with a diagnosis. It is not only emotionally difficult for you, but can also be difficult for those who love you.
LAM Action is here to help you and your family. Throughout this website you will find information on this condition, answers to some of your questions and solutions to potential problems you may encounter. In addition, we can help you meet, talk and write to others in the UK with LAM. Sharing your experience and learning from the experience of those who have been living with LAM for longer can be helpful, encouraging and inspirational.
In particular, we encourage you first to contact our LAM Action coordinator, Jill Pateman. Jill will be able to talk things through with you, and tell you more about LAM Action and the kinds of support available. She will point you in the right direction for more information. If you’d like to speak to someone else with LAM, Jill can also put you in telephone contact with others with LAM. Jill only works on Wednesday and can be reached on email jill.pateman@office.lamaction.org or on 07710 527636. For urgent enquiries at other times, you may want to email contact@office.lamaction.org and a volunteer will try to respond to you when Jill is not available.
Women with LAM Share Their Stories
Jo’s story
Jo was diagnosed with LAM in 2017, in her early fifties. She maintains an active lifestyle and is cared for by the team at the National Centre for LAM, in Nottingham.
Sally’s story
Sally was diagnosed with LAM when she was in her early fifties. Now in her sixties, she remains active, riding horses and working around her farm.
Harriet’s story
Harriet has only recently discovered that she has LAM and talks frankly about the experiences that led up to her diagnosis and how a visit to a LAM Action meeting helped her to come to terms with the disease.
LAM and Mental Health
Consultant clinical psychologist Dr Victoria Hill explores the mental health issues that may follow a LAM diagnosis. This is the first of two videos produced by LAM Action. The second proposes ways to live with LAM in the longer term.