Luke’s life took a significant turn when he was diagnosed with Common Variable Immunodeficiency (CVID) when he was 24 years old. For years, he had struggled with unexplained illnesses, often feeling persistently unwell. It wasn’t until he attempted to donate blood that the underlying issue was identified. The Red Cross blood service informed him of his low immune system function, which led to further medical evaluation and ultimately his diagnosis.

As a child, Luke frequently fell ill, and his symptoms were often dismissed by doctors as allergies or common colds. Learning about his condition provided clarity, explaining why he had always felt sick, but it also raised concerns about his long-term health.

Following his diagnosis, Luke began managing his condition through various treatments. Initially receiving intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg), he later transitioned to subcutaneous treatment(SCIg), which enabled him to administer his infusions at home. Although the thought of self-injection was daunting at first, he quickly adapted to this new routine, embracing it as part of his life.

Luke maintains a positive and determined outlook despite his health challenges. His family, especially his wife and children, serve as his greatest motivation. He enjoys practices such as yoga and public speaking, volunteering to share his story and raise awareness about immunodeficiency. Additionally, he finds joy in nurturing his garden, which includes chickens and pumpkins, and indulges in his interest for some video games of his choice.

To manage his condition day-to-day, Luke takes certain precautions. He carries hand sanitizer with him and plans outings to avoid crowded places. By scheduling shopping trips during off-peak hours, he minimises his exposure to illnesses. While he occasionally feels the lingering effects of his treatment, he strives to lead a balanced life, combining health management with family activities and personal interests.

As a proud father, Luke delights in watching his children grow. His youngest daughter, aspiring to be a teacher, often engages in imaginative play, teaching her dolls to read. He cherishes these moments and is deeply grateful for his family’s unwavering support, noting that his wife stood by him during his health struggles with incredible resilience.

Looking back on his journey, Luke acknowledges the challenges he faced in accepting his condition. Initially overwhelmed, he immersed himself in research to better understand CVID. This pursuit of knowledge empowered him to accept his diagnosis and take proactive steps towards management. He emphasises the importance of education and understanding by encouraging others who are navigating similar challenges to seek information and ask questions.

For Luke, his life is not defined by his diagnosis but rather enriched by it. He views his condition as a single aspect of his identity, one that does not dictate the quality of his life. He believes that while living with CVID presents challenges, it does not have to constrain his experiences. As he often shares with others, adapting, staying informed, and embracing support networks are vital to navigating the complexities of living with an immune deficiency.

Through patience and resilience, Luke continues to thrive, demonstrating that it is possible to find balance and joy even amid life’s uncertainties.