Pete’s Story: “You Can Control How You Support Your Body”
Get To Know… Pete
Name: Pete
Age: 46
Location: East Kilbride, Glasgow
Battling HS for: 6-10 Years
Current Stage: Stage 3
“The biggest lesson HS teaches is that consistency and self-advocacy are your strongest tools when dealing with a condition that feels unpredictable. It’s a masterclass in resilience, proving that while you can’t always control a flare-up, you can control how you support your body through the process.”
**Warning – Graphic Images contained on this page.
The Beginning: A Frustrating Road to a Name
It wasn’t something that got diagnosed straight away. At first, I thought it was just boils or ingrown hairs that would come and go. Over time, it kept coming back, getting worse, and affecting more areas. Eventually, after going back and forward with doctors, I was told it was Hidradenitis Suppurativa. In a way, it was frustrating it took so long, but at the same time, it was a relief to finally have a name for what I was dealing with.
A ‘Bad’ Day in the Life: Constant Discomfort
A bad day is constant discomfort. Simple things like walking, sitting, or even wearing certain clothes can become painful. You’re always aware of it—it’s not something you can switch off. It can drain your energy, and you end up planning your whole day around managing the pain rather than just living normally.
My Reality: In Images
The Unseen Battle: The Mental Exhaustion
HS definitely affects your confidence. It’s not just the physical pain—it’s how it makes you feel about yourself. You can become more self-conscious, avoid certain situations, and overthink things other people wouldn’t even notice. Mentally, it can be exhausting dealing with something that people don’t really see or understand, but still has a big impact on your day-to-day life.”
Finding What Works: Managing What I Can Control
For me, it’s about managing what I can control. Wearing loose, comfortable clothing makes a big difference. Keeping a consistent hygiene routine helps, and being aware of triggers like friction or stress. Planning ahead is key—whether that’s what I wear, where I’m going, or how active I’ll be. Small adjustments don’t cure it, but they make it more manageable.
A Moment of Strength: The Days I Win
A win for me isn’t something massive—it’s the days where HS doesn’t dictate what I do. Even something as simple as getting through a full day, going out, or sticking to plans without having to cancel feels like a win. It’s about not letting it take over and still showing up for life.
My Support System
Gareth and Rob mainly, as we have built what I like to think is a good friendship online, sharing stories and advice HS related or just life in general.
My Joy
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