A rare disease caused a woman to collapse and become paralyzed, initially mistaken for MS, altering her life dramatically. Victoria Johnston, a 35-year-old mother of two from Milton Keynes, had to close her successful cleaning business due to Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP), an autoimmune disorder.
Following a prolonged period of medical examinations, Ms. Johnston finally received a CIDP diagnosis three years post-collapse, prompting her to advocate for faster treatment in the UK, inspired by the more efficient care provided in the US. She has turned to TikTok to raise awareness about CIDP and assist others navigating life post-diagnosis.
Struggling with the debilitating effects of CIDP, Ms. Johnston faced challenges in daily tasks, relying heavily on her partner for support. Despite the difficulties, she remains determined to educate and support others through her CIDP journey, aiming to turn her experience into something positive.
The impact of CIDP on Ms. Johnston’s life has been profound, leading to lifestyle adjustments and emotional challenges. With ongoing treatment plans and the possibility of a different CIDP variant, she continues to advocate for improved care and support, highlighting the need for better awareness and understanding of this rare condition.