My Story

Where do I begin? 

 In 2001 at the youthful age of 27, my mum was diagnosed with Psoriatic Arthritis - news of which answered years of medical anomalies. This did, however, cast huge doubt over her role as a single parent to my sister and I.

My mums initial reaction was to feel helpless and lost as she felt she may not be able to sufficently care for two young children on her own. The next 7 years was an up hill battle dealing with specialists at the hosptial to find the right treatment to help deal with her pain and mobility issues. 

As a young boy, I adapted to life understanding some days my sister and I would need to help around the house and care for our mums needs. I remember mum often teaching us how to cook basic meals and at the age of 11 my sister and I would cook for mum on her bad days. We would also help around the house and do our bit to make sure mum could rest when she needed to.

My mum has always had a "can do" attitude which was manifested itself into me and allowed me to push myself and grow to be the man I am today. This hasn't come without adversity as she has had to learn to deal with people not believing in her illness whilst having to overcome her mental demons simaltaneously. 

In 2010/11, mum was prescribed biologic medication (Humira) in hope of alleviating her pain and slowing down the progression of the disease. The medication has allowed mum to be far more independent and live her life, holding down a part time job for the past 9 years. However in her down time she is often overcome by the pain and sleeps or rests to deal with the lifelong illness. 

In my later life I have seen my grandad who was once a sports fanatic famously playing at Stamford Bridge as a youngster become completely immoblised by osteoarthritis. He has adapted to life well and still can be found working in the garden and enjoying life to the fullest despite often fighting through the pain. 

Arthritis affects 528 million people worldwide and can start effecting you as early as your childhood. It also has side effects to families and support networks surrounding those suffering. This is not something to ignore and needs more research. 

Please share around and together we will beat Arthritis!

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