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Jack
For as long as I can remember, I have lived with haemophilia, a rare bleeding disorder which means I have no factor VIII in my body to help with internal blood clotting. When I was little, I had a lot of bleeds into my elbow, knee and ankle joints, which are badly damaged as a result. This didn’t stop me from doing the sports I wanted to.
After taking up swimming at the age of four, I never dreamed that I’d end up representing Team GB at the London 2012 and that it would be the best experience of my life, one that I will always be grateful for.
I came fourth in the 100m Breaststroke and broke 3 British records – 50m Breaststroke, 100m Breaststroke and as part of the 4x100m medley relay team (twice in one day!). It was the most amazing moment to share with my teammates and my family who were with me every step of the way. London 2012 gave me the opportunity to go out into the world and speak about what life was like being a professional athlete and someone who lives with from severe Haemophilia.
Rosie Woods
Rosie is a street and studio artist from London. Rosie has left her mark across the globe with spray-paints and brushes. Whether scaling huge walls or working on more refined canvas’ she focuses on texture, colour and movement.
“I’m particularly interested in this brief having lost my father to an extremely rare disease, an antibody found in his system called Anti-Hu. Sadly my mother has also been diagnosed with a rare brain tumour this year. Despite this, I hope my work comes across as uplifting.”
This campaign isn’t just about us – it’s about you. If you live with or care for someone with a rare disease, share your experience on social media using the hashtag #IAmNumber17.
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