Overview

• Tia Rey was diagnosed with antisynthetase syndrome in January after an emergency rheumatology assessment.
• Her condition causes severe fatigue, joint stiffness and muscle inflammation, with mild interstitial lung disease and diastolic dysfunction also reported.
• She currently takes steroids and other medications while her consultant recommends rituximab infusions to suppress immune activity.
• Her diagnostic path began with a spreading rash and swollen fingers in June 2024 after initial GP-prescribed creams failed and a dermatology wait ensued.
• Rey says the illness has disrupted daily life and future plans, and she intends to refund donations if she receives NHS-funded treatment.