I really see a future where I have options again

Lily recently graduated from Edinburgh University. Over the course of her four years as a student she was in hospital ten times with asthma. Today, it’s a different story – as starting a course of biologics changed Lily’s life.

Lily, Asthma + Lung UK supporter
Published 31st July 2026

We just couldn’t find a regimen to control my symptoms

I was diagnosed with asthma when I was four – and hospital visits have been a constant throughout my life. 

By the time I was 16, I was put onto a very strong steroid inhaler (fostair) to manage my condition more. I was told that I would need to be seen in clinic more frequently because of the strength of this medication, but there was a long wait time. 

When I was seen again, we did a Fev1 test – a diagnostic test that measures the amount of air you can forcefully exhale in one second – and it came back with some pretty scary numbers. During this period, I ended up having loads of tests and being seen much more regularly but we just couldn't find a new regimen to control my symptoms. 

On top of the stress of my condition, I had to step away from international netball.  

I’d always been active and sporty but the unpredictability of my asthma meant I couldn’t always play when I was selected. It was hugely disappointing, because netball really was my passion.

It felt very unfair to miss out on so much

Prior to starting on biologic treatments, my day-to-day life living with asthma was unpredictable. I didn’t know what symptoms I was going to present with, and that made me quite anxious. Even though I’m a very adventurous and outgoing person.  

I was nervous to travel in case I was too far from a hospital, scared about forgetting my inhalers wherever I went.  

Day-to-day I was just really anxious. Because of my asthma, and some frustration because it was interrupting my professional sporting career and my studies. It felt very unfair to miss out on so much.”

Advocating for myself and seeking treatment has changed my life

Now there’s no reason why I can’t enjoy my life to the full

In July of last year, I started my biologics treatment – a drug called Benralizumab – and since then my condition has improved massively.  

Advocating for myself and seeking out biologic treatment has changed my life. I’ve been able to keep being fit and active – and I’m proud to say I recently several marathons and completed an Ironman. One of the highlights was getting to run the London Marathon for Asthma + Lung UK! 

I know that Asthma + Lung UK have played a role in making biologics more accessible, which is incredibly meaningful for me.  

I don't even know if there are any words to express how much new advancements in biologics have changed my life for the better.

Support from charities like Asthma + Lung UK has changed my life

Because of the campaigning work of charities like Asthma + Lung UK, biologics are now far easier to access. That access has genuinely changed my life. I spent so much of last year in a hospital bed and I honestly couldn't see a life for myself past it. 

I really see a future now where I have options again. I have the freedom to travel, explore, and compete, knowing that I can push myself like everyone else and it won't be to the detriment of my health. I’d genuinely describe it as ‘life-changing’. 

That sense of confidence, and that knowledge that you can get advice and access the right treatment, really does make a world of difference.” 

Our supporters ensure that people like Lily, and people from all walks of life, can access the treatment and support they need to manage their condition and live well.  

That kind of treatment and support can be absolutely life-changing.  

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