Jane, age 60, was diagnosed with asthma age 1 year old. She is white British, single and lives alone. She worked as a civil servant for many years but retired on medical grounds at age 50. She has recently started working as a part time administrator. Over the years Jane's life and opportunities have been restricted at times by her condition, although she is now much more able to manage the condition and has had periods where things have been relatively stable. Jane has what is known as catamenial asthma, which is related to the female hormones around the menstrual cycle, and also allergic asthma related primarily to dust.

Chris, age 59, was only 7 when she was diagnosed with asthma. She is white British and is married with two adult children. She is a retired teacher. After her first asthma attack at age 7, she had regular and frequent episodes of illness throughout her childhood which often resulted in absence from school. Her last really bad asthma attack was when she was about 28 and since the advent of newer and more effective treatments she has been very successful at managing the condition so that it doesn't restrict her life.

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.

Alice's friend was initially diagnosed with mild' MS, his illness progressed rapidly and he is now completely incapacitated by it and receiving 24 hour care at home. Alice has continued to visit him frequently over the years. She feels that she still receives as much care from him as she gives.

• MS: Friends

Christine's friend was diagnosed with MS sometime before telling her about it. They have maintained a close relationship, while living apart, though they have both struggled to come to terms with the disabilities that the illness brings.

• MS: Friends

Nick's older brother was diagnosed with MS while abroad on a university scholarship. Currently, he lives independently and leads a happy positive life. Nick is ready to provide support for his brother when need be.

• MS: Siblings

Kay's brother was diagnosed with MS in 2000 at the age of 25. He is now profoundly disabled and lives in a care home. Kay visits him two or three times a week and thinks of herself as his champion and advocate since both their parents died. [Kay's brother died in January 2012, after she spoke to us].

• MS: Siblings

Her mum was diagnosed with MS when Nicola was a young teenager. They lived together through Nicola's teenage years. They live in separate towns now and see each other about once a month.

• MS: Children