Justine is a fighter with extraordinary character and courage. From being diagnosed with one of the world' s rarest lung diseases she maintained her vibrancy for life and positive attitude; always believing she would be a one in a million who would survive . Since being diagnosed with LAM Justine has appeared on TV and in both national and local newspapers to tell her story and to campaign for organ donation.

Life on being diagnosed with LAM

Justine suffered 2 right lung collapses in her early twenties. At the time she was not diagnosed with Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) and was told that it was not uncommon for tall, slim and athletic people to have lung collapses. Nevertheless, despite suffering pains in her chest over the following 10 years, it was not until April 2005 (aged 32) after a left lung collapse, that Justine was diagnosed with end stage Lam.

Justine also learnt that during the 10 years her right lung had completely failed. As she had approximately 30% lung capacity (from the collapsed left lung) she required oxygen 24/7, and became wheelchair dependant.

Over the next 8 months Justine’s left lung collapsed a further 13 times, and in February 2006 she was hospitalised at the specialist Harefield hospital for 6 months. During this time Justine faced a number of close encounters with death, including a period on full life support. Even after 3 weeks in an induced coma, Justine's struggles were far but over when brought round and she had to learn to walk again. Justine still remained on life support for many weeks unable to eat, drink, move and talk.

Finally, on 9 July 2006 and after 3 false alarms, Justine received a life saving double-lung transplant.

For more information on Justine’s hospital journey and personal experience see her diary extracts and the news bulletins documenting her medical journey.

Life before LAM

In the early years, as a child Justine studied dance (Ballet, Modern Ballet, National Dancing,  Aerobics, and Tap). The passion for dance continued with getting into the hip-hop scene and learning some funky moves by watching other people in clubs! Other styles of dance learnt were Salsa and Lambada, and at University a short course in African Dance. Justine loved this style the most, and in her late twenties studied Street Dance - which at one point was a focal point in her life - sometimes doing up to 5 classes a week!!  

At University, Justine studied : Drama, Sports and Recreation Studies and Art and Design, and if she was not rehearsing for any plays, or painting away - was at a local student pub! Justine enjoyed the social life and still did until the unfortunate diagnosis. However, as you can now see Justine is trying to get back some kind of social scene - even if it is not as highly active as before. 

Justine has always been keen on health and fitness since a teenager, and tried to exercise and eat a healthy diet. Although, she has a craving for burgers (Wimpy Burger her favourite - a quarter pounder with cheese) and likes a take- away! Justine also qualified to teach aerobics and once obtaining this qualification, taught street dance for children at two different schools. Keeping up with the food interest, involved her working in an Organic Food Store, and at one stage running a Juice Bar in the City of London. 

Even though Justine has had a main job, she always had part time jobs including the dance teaching, and then becoming a children's entertainer. The skills including:- magic, balloon modelling, face painting, choreographer/dancing, games and story telling for boys and girls aged 3 and upwards. Justine's weekends would be booked doing the kids parties and then going out socialising! 

Justine also has great curly hair (all natural) and become a house model for L'Oreal in London, and then was lucky enough to be noticed and used in some fashion/hair shows. 

One of Justine's hobbies even included buying some DJ equipment and had aspirations to be a famous lady DJ, but, the dancing and busy work schedule took over from that. Justine's most recent job, was working in a Health Club (Esporta) to which she was enjoying so much and working in different departments to gain experience for the ultimate move to become a General Manager. 

Life After Lam

Since her double-lung transplant Justine has speedily got back on her feet, having participated in the UK transplant games and travelled for 2 months in Europe.

Justine is looking to pursue a career in the media and is considering becoming a Television Presenter. She will also be selling her art on a larger scale.  

Justine's wish list includes: a hot air balloon experience; a sports car driving experience, to own a new mazda convertible; appearing in a TV soap, a luxury spa trip, a paragliding experience. Justine will be grateful for any and all donations.

So there you have it - an insight into the mind of the bubbly persona of Justine – or as she likes to be known – Justine Le Monde!