Mark, age 49, was diagnosed with asthma at age 6. He is white British and married with two children (aged 8 and 11) who also suffer from asthma. Mark himself has a number of health conditions as well as asthma, and at the moment is unable to work. His asthma is quite severe and he experiences symptoms most days because there are a wide variety of things that trigger his asthma, including changes in weather and temperature, pollen, over exertion and smoky or dusty atmospheres.

Tomas, age 16, was diagnosed with asthma at age 6 months. He is white and lives at home with his parents and brother. Tomas is a keen rugby player and thinks that his asthma is not stopping him from doing the sport he likes. His parents have always encouraged and supported him. He says that the work that Asthma UK does at schools has helped to improve the understanding of the condition among teachers and children.

Catherine, age 39, has had asthma (diagnosed at age 5) and a number of other health conditions since birth. She is white British, single and works with young people who have learning disabilities. During her childhood she found that she was unable to take part in many things and felt quite isolated. As an adult, Catherine has found ways to make life work for her, and is able to live a full and active life.