Everyone feels differently about Christmas. For PHA UK member Raya – who was diagnosed with PH as a baby – it’s a time to make memories with family and enjoy the magic of London…

“Christmas has always been my favourite time of year, ever since I was little. I love the winter, the lights, the magic, the gifting, and just everything about it. My dad always calls me Little Miss Christmas, because I just get so excited.

Every year me and my family always try to fit in loads of fun throughout December. First of course is decorating ! Now I would definitely do this in November if I could, but my mum always says that’s way too early, so I have to agree on the first weekend in December. We get the Christmas songs on, all the decorations out, and spend the whole evening putting up the tree and our favourite hallway fairy lights. Our house always looks so magical.

One of my favourite things to do this time of year is going into London and seeing all the Christmas lights. We do it every single year, and having my car and disabled badge is  such a bonus because it means we can find little parking spaces around London if we want to get out for photos. But mostly we love being cozy in the car with blankets, driving around town with the Christmas music on. This is something that does not tire me out or make me cold – it is just something we and do at our pace on whatever day suits us.

Christmas time for me is about spending as much time with family as possible, as I love when we are all together and making memories. Even though my mum and dad haven’t been together for years now, they still go above and beyond to make sure we are all together for Christmas. They’ve made sure of it since we were kids and I’m so truly grateful they have. Me and my brother have never had to choose between them; we get to see them both on Christmas and spend it all together. Although they do take turns to make the Christmas dinner!

Over the years we’ve had lots of Christmas traditions, some have which have changed as we’ve got older, and some new ones have been added too. A massive tradition of ours is on Christmas Eve, when my dad comes over and we order a pizza and watch The Polar Express. This is one of our favourite Christmas movies. After the film, now that I’m older and can stay awake, me and my dad then love going to church for their midnight service. It’s so magical! We sing Christmas carols and light candles to welcome in Christmas. I just love it. Them coming home and getting into cozy Christmas pyjamas is the best.

I’ll let you into a little secret – once I’m home it’s time to get to sleep fast, because even though I’m 25, Santa does still come to visit and I wake up to a stocking outside my door.

I can’t wait for Christmas to come around again, although last year was definitely one of my favourites as it was me and my fiancée Jade’s first one together. Spending Christmas with family is the best, but also having your forever person there too is amazing. We loved every single second together!

Merry Christmas to everyone, and I wish you a happy healthy new year. See you in 2026!”

Raya helps her pets get into the Christmas spirit too!