“I was diagnosed with PH at the age of 27. I was single at the time, having recently split from my ex-partner.

Having PH hasn’t really affected by body image. The only thing that does bother me is the discolouration I now have on my lower legs and feet. This was something I worried could potentially put off a future partner on first glance.

Luckily though, my partner and I were friends for three years before we got together, so she vaguely knew about my condition from the point of diagnosis. I don’t feel it affects our intimacy day to day in any way.

I did go through a period of worrying my partner would leave if my condition worsened. It ate away at me for weeks but in the end, I just had to communicate how I was feeling, and my partner reassured me that I had nothing to worry about.

If anything, the PH has made us stronger emotionally, as we have always known the deal from the start, and it has taught us to always communicate.

Always be open and honest. If you’re having a bad day, or need some help, just tell your partner; don’t suffer in silence. They are there to help you and support you with whatever you need.”

Jackie’s name has been changed to protect anonymity