Our Story of Love, Strength, and Hope
Porphyria Voices shares experiences, insights, and advice from the porphyria community. Discover valuable knowledge, foster connections, and join us in raising awareness to empower and unite our porphyria family.
By Keshia Le Roux
In November 2025, my life changed forever. I became very ill, and the four months that followed were the toughest battle I have ever faced. There were days filled with uncertainty, fear, pain, and questions I never thought I would have to ask.
Throughout every hospital visit, every setback, and every difficult day, my partner was by my side whenever she could be. Her presence gave me strength when I felt like I had none left.
December was especially difficult. She saw me at my absolute worst. There were moments when she thought she might lose me, yet she never let go. She stood beside me and reminded me every day to keep fighting. She prayed for me when I couldn't find the words myself. She held me when I questioned, "Why me?" and when I struggled to see a way forward.
When I became paralyzed and needed constant assistance, she stepped in without hesitation. She gave me her time, her energy, and her unwavering support. Not once did she complain. Not once did she make me feel like a burden. Instead, she would look at me and say, "Together, we will get through this."
And together, we did.
Keshia and her partner.
Today, I am still recovering, and she continues to be my biggest supporter. She encourages me to go to the gym, to keep pushing forward, and to never give up on myself. She checks on me every day—making sure I've eaten, taken my medication, and looked after myself. She celebrates every victory with me, no matter how small.
My partner has shown me a kind of unconditional love that words can hardly describe. Through the darkest chapter of my life, she became my light. I will forever be grateful that our paths crossed and that life brought us together.
And now comes the beautiful part of our story.
In August 2026, we will make it official. My partner will become my wife.
We have faced challenges that many relationships never have to endure. We have experienced heartbreak, uncertainty, and difficult days, but through it all, we have always emerged stronger. Every obstacle has strengthened our bond and deepened our love.
Making her my wife is one of the greatest honours of my life. She has shown me the true meaning of love, loyalty, sacrifice, and commitment. For that, I will be forever grateful.
Porphyria has tested us in ways we never expected, but it also showed us the power of having someone truly stand beside you. In the hardest moments, her love became my support system, my strength, and my reason to keep moving forward.
For more information on porphyria and managing symptoms, visit Porphyria.org or contact us at info@porphyria.org. We are here to support you in your journey.
Keshia Le Roux is a 39-year-old from Gauteng, South Africa, living with Variegate Porphyria (VP). After a severe porphyria attack left her temporarily paralyzed, she continues her recovery surrounded by the love and support of her family and her partner.
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