A cystic fibrosis-sufferer who often struggles to breathe on her own claims to have been told she can’t yet have a double lung transplant – because she’s not ill enough.
Jessica Spoor, 30, is frequently put on to oxygen as a result of the debilitating and potentially fatal disorder.
A transplant will give her a “second chance at life” who had previously been a keen runner and completed the Great North Run half marathon in 2009.
Doctors have reportedly told Jessica she must wait until her health deteriorates before her name is placed on the waiting list, it was said.
Jessica does not believe she will be considered until her lung function is consistently below 30 per cent – it’s currently deemed stable at 34 per cent.
She has been left frustrated that the transplant is on hold despite being a “perfect candidate” but accepts she’s not in desperate need right now.
Jessica, from Leeds, West Yorks, said: “They have said I’m a perfect candidate so it is just a question of when.
“I was happy because obviously that is going to be my last resort at the end of the day so I was glad to hear that I am a good candidate for a transplant.
“They have also revealed that my lung function is a little too high to go on the list.
“It is frustrating in one way, but the good thing is I am being closely monitored.
“If my condition does worsen it looks like I will make it on to the list quite quickly.”
She added: “Cystic fibrosis has reduced my quality of life significantly.
“I can’t spend hours out and about anymore or go out with my friends as much as I used to.
“I get breathless very quickly and tired after a short time.
“A double lung transplant would eradicate the cystic fibrosis in my lungs, so it would change my quality of life significantly.
“I understand that it’s something I’ll have done in the future and not right now.”
She was born with cystic fibrosis but was able to live a full and active life until last March, when she was struck down with a string of chest infections.
Her illness meant she was forced to give up her job in human resources at Asda, which she started after graduating in business management at Leeds Metropolitan University.
She now spends up to five hours a day being treated for her condition at home.
Her daily regime involves being put on to nebulisers, which enable her to inhale drugs into her lungs and doing physiotherapy.
Jessica, who used to be an avid gym-goer and runner, is now only able to walk a short distance before tiring out.
She goes to hospital every three months for tests to establish any changes in her condition and see if her lung functionality has decreased.
Jessica is currently raising money for St James’s Hospital in Leeds, where she has been treated for her condition.
Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, which runs Freeman Hospital where Jessica would be operated on, have been contacted for comment.
To donate, visit www.tinyurl.com/ybap6y75.