Hi!

I was diagnosed with RA in October 2010, after numerous visits to my GP in the six months leading up to this, and was told I was '40', should expect aches and pains and just 'get on with it'!

I spoke to a different GP, who after a very short few moments diagnosed my condition and promised to help me. I will never forget his kindness and support.

My consultant and 'Rheumy' nurses have been amazing! Their support, advice and encouragement are without limits - they are on the end of the 'phone when I have any worries, and contact me if my blood results are out of character. Without them and their knowledge I would not have the confidence to be able to do this!

My journey with this disease has not come with its up's and down's, 18 months ago I couldn't see any 'up's' - depression caused by pain and the fact that I found even the most simple of tasks almost impossible made me feel hopeless. Having been in control and very independent, I cannot begin to explain how 'pathetic' I felt not being able to tie my shoe laces, cut my food, brush my hair and so many other tasks that I had taken for granted. The hardest part is that RA is an invisible illness - you can a see a little bit of swelling, but it most cases there is no signs that anything is wrong. I wish I had a badge that would flash with numbers 1 to 10 - this would be an indicator of the level of pain I was experiencing - the first 18 months it would have been constantly on 10! I couldn't begin to explain what it felt like and so I know that it could have been interpreted as me 'faking it' or wanting attention. I am doing this walk to raise awareness for this.

My husband and my daughter have been amazing. My daughter has never been embarrassed to tie my shoes, brush my hair or help with shopping or household chores. My husband has supported me, come to appointments and although frustrated that he couldn't take my pain away - he has been there for me and I wouldn't be where I am today! I want them to know how much I love them and how much I appreciate their love and support!

Family and friends have seen me cry for hours and not been able to help me, and I want them to know that their hugs and care have meant everything to me.

The last nine months have the hardest - but I made a decision at the beginning of June to get my life back. I have an amazing group of family and friends and with their support and love I am where I am today - I have turned my life around - learnt to do things differently to accommodate my illness and know that rest is as important as cleaning the house!!

And so - I am doing this for me - to say thank you to everyone who has helped me get to this stage. I know I have to deal with this for the rest of my life, but I am in control, I know what signs to look out for and I know help is always there for me.

Please come and walk with me on the 14th October - it’s a great walk, and I would like to have a picnic after! If you are unable to come with me, please consider sponsoring me - I hope that any money raised will fund resources to promote RA, I know there is no cure, but research for new medication could help, there are so many ways funds could be used - so THANK YOU!!!

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