Patient Stories Project
The Patient Stories Project shares the inspiring journeys of individuals living with chronic conditions and their commitment to staying active. Through personal stories, we highlight the challenges, triumphs, and creative ways patients incorporate physical activity into their daily lives
Becoming the Exception: My Journey to Health and Strength
Deb’s journey to better health began after years of knee injuries, surgeries, and struggling with weight gain. In 2006, she decided to make a change, starting a fitness routine and joining Weight Watchers with support from her family. Over time, Deb lost 117.5 pounds, gained strength, and found relief from knee pain.
After her second knee replacement, she continued working out regularly and maintaining her weight. Deb’s story shows that with determination and the right support, overcoming challenges is possible. READ MORE
Finding Balance: Michael Kuluva’s Path to Wellness with Rheumatoid Arthritis
Michael, a fashion designer and former figure skater, has managed rheumatoid arthritis (RA) for 15 years by staying active and adapting his routine. He splits his time between Toronto and Los Angeles for a better climate and walks 10-12,000 steps daily, adjusting based on his symptoms. Low-impact activities like yoga and water exercises help him stay mobile.
Through trial and error, Michael found a routine that supports his physical and mental health. Now training as a yoga instructor, he hopes to help others with limited mobility. His advice: be patient, listen to your body, and take it day by day. READ MORE
Flexibility and Resilience: Anna’s Path to Managing Chronic Pain
Anna, a queer, racialized young adult, has lived with ankylosing spondylitis (AS) and fibromyalgia since their late teens. After struggling with pain and limited mobility, a physiotherapy recommendation helped Anna discover the benefits of movement. Through stretching and simple exercises, they regained flexibility and mobility, integrating movement into daily life to manage pain and maintain function.
Now, Anna views movement as essential for managing their conditions, focusing on exercises like yoga, walking, and stretching rather than fitness goals. They’ve learned to respect their body’s limits and embrace movement as a form of self-care, which has greatly improved their quality of life despite living with chronic illness. READ MORE
A Life of Resilience: Overcoming Pain Through Movement
As Jim approaches his 90th birthday in early 2025, he reflects on a lifetime shaped by physical challenges and the power of movement. Born with double dislocated hip joints and later battling rheumatic fever as a teenager, he learned early on that exercise is not just about strength; it is essential for recovery and adaptation.
From his time in the Air Force to a career as a medical lab technologist, physical activity remained a cornerstone of his life. After multiple joint replacements, he continued to push his limits, using exercise to regain mobility and maintain independence. In this story, Jim shares his experiences of overcoming physical obstacles, the role of movement in recovery, and the lessons he has learned about resilience, healing, and the body’s remarkable ability to adapt. READ MORE
Adapting to Move: Staying Active with Fibromyalgia
Trudy has always been active, even after her fibromyalgia diagnosis over 30 years ago. Over time, she adapted her exercise routine, learning to pace herself and stay flexible. With support from her family, she remains committed to movement, balancing activity with self-awareness.
Despite challenges, staying active gives Trudy strength and resilience. She enjoys a run-walk approach, outdoor activities, and Qi Gong to manage pain and stay mindful. Exercising in the morning keeps her consistent, and small movement breaks help on tough days. Through adaptability and self-compassion, she continues to find joy in movement. READ MORE
Breaking Barriers: Trinity’s Journey to Paralympic Fencing and Self-Discovery
Trinity represented Canada at the 2024 Paralympics in wheelchair fencing, achieving the country’s best result. After facing illness in high school, she rediscovered her love for sports, overcoming accessibility barriers and finding wheelchair fencing to match her abilities. As the first para-fencer at her club, she worked with coaches to develop new training methods and now coaches others.
Trinity’s journey taught her to prioritize the quality of practice over quantity and embrace freedom in exploring different sports. She encourages others to try new activities and stresses the importance of self-advocacy and resources like Becoming Para Ready for accessible participation in adaptive sports. READ MORE
A Journey of Resilience: From Childhood Sports to Long Covid Challenges
From an early age, physical activity was a big part of Maddy’s life; running, swimming, and cycling brought joy and achievement.
As an adult, daily walks with a beloved dog kept fitness in check. However, after developing Long Covid, staying active became a challenge. Fatigue, asthma, and joint pain made even short bike rides difficult. Despite these struggles, Maddy’s drive to move remains, whether through e-bikes or exploring new treatments. The goal is simple: to keep moving, one step at a time. READ MORE
Land Acknowledgement
We/I acknowledge that Western University is located on the traditional territories of the Anishinaabek (Ah-nish-in-a-bek), Haudenosaunee (Ho-den-no-show-nee), Lūnaapéewak (Len-ahpay- wuk) and Chonnonton (Chun-ongk-ton) Nations, on lands connected with the London Township and Sombra Treaties of 1796 and the Dish with One Spoon Covenant Wampum. This land continues to be home to diverse Indigenous Peoples (First Nations, Métis and Inuit) whom we recognize as contemporary stewards of the land and vital contributors of our society.