Author
Wolfgang Schneider, as appeared in Alpha1 Journal 1/2026.
My Day in Front of the Camera: When I was asked if I wanted to participate in a video shoot about my life with Alpha 1 antitrypsin deficiency, I didn't have to think twice and immediately agreed. It was clear to me: if my story could help others – whether those affected or people considering donating plasma – then I wanted to share it.
From the moment I arrived, I knew this day would be special. The team was warm, open, and attentive. I immediately felt comfortable – not like someone who had to "perform" in front of a camera, but like a person whose story truly mattered.
There was a lot of laughter during filming, but also some reflective moments. Especially when I talked about the time before my diagnosis: the uncertainty, the waning of my strength, the many unanswered questions.
”""And then, about 20 years ago, came the diagnosis – a turning point that reminded me of what my brother had died of over 30 years earlier. Now I was confronted with a similar illness. That's when many things became clear to me. Including the fact that I could adjust my life accordingly. The diagnosis changed a lot of things, but it also gave me the realization that I could do something about it. Things went quite well for a few years, but then slowly deteriorated. Then I developed asthma, which, given the circumstances, caused me real problems. I didn't start substitution therapy until 2024. I'm grateful that there's a therapy that allows me to continue being there for the people I love for as long as possible."„
I hope that viewers of the video hear not only my words, but also the gratitude behind them. Without people who regularly donate plasma, my therapy wouldn't be possible. Without them, my life would probably be much more limited today. This gratitude is hard to put into words – but it accompanies me every day.
The video shoot was more than just a project for me. It showed me how important it is to tell your story – and how much power there is in it. If even one person is motivated to donate plasma by this video, then every moment was worthwhile. I am grateful for this day: for the trust, the openness, the honest conversations.
I hope that everyone who sees my story understands:
”Behind every plasma donation is a life that can continue – including mine.
The video shoot was a collaboration with the blood and plasma donation services of Haema and Plasmavita.
To the Haema video:
Haema: A silent gift that saves lives:
To the Plasmavita video:
Plasmavita: What your plasma donation does:
