Helen Sabin, 57, was diagnosed with Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) in 2008 and was told she had just five years to live. However, after being accepted onto a clinical trial for the only known treatment for the illness, rapamycin, she has been doing well and has been able to live a fulfilling life thanks to the support of the UK specialist centre for LAM. The centre, set up at Nottingham's Queen's Medical Centre in 2011, offers services including respiratory care, surgical assessment and treatment, as well as acting as a hub for clinical trials of new therapies.
Woman defies five-year prognosis with rare lung condition
UKPulse Health DeskHelen Sabin, 57, was diagnosed with Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) in 2008 and was told she had just five years to live. She has been doing well on the medication rapamycin and has been able to live a fulfilling life thanks to the support of the UK specialist centre for LAM.
- Helen Sabin was diagnosed with Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) in 2008 and was told she had just five years to live.
- She has been doing well on the medication rapamycin and has been able to live a fulfilling life thanks to the support of the UK specialist centre for LAM.
- The UK specialist centre for LAM offers services including respiratory care, surgical assessment and treatment, as well as acting as a hub for clinical trials of new therapies.
Why this matters: This story highlights the importance of specialist care and support for patients with rare diseases, and the need for further research into these conditions.
What this means for you: If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with a rare disease, it's essential to seek support from specialist centres and healthcare professionals.