Please help us to celebrate the RSA’s 30th Anniversary in 2012. We are aiming to raise a total of one million pounds between 2010-2012 to fund several research projects into Raynaud's and scleroderma. People with these conditions will be given an opportunity to send in suggestions as to what they feel are the most important areas of research. These suggestions will be considered by our trustees and medical advisers before announcing to health professionals that funding is available. The aim is to generate enthusiasm amongst the medical profession throughout the UK, in order to help find a cure.
In support of this project, Professor Chris Denton, Consultant Rheumatologist at the Royal Free Hospital in London states: “I think that you have had a terrific and timely idea. By focusing on research in the UK, this will be a very substantial investment that should yield results. Engagement of patients or "users" in identifying priorities makes this effort especially relevant and important. The Raynaud's link is unique and is also an area that complements other international initiatives. There is growing appreciation that the burden of scleroderma and Raynaud's extends into many important and neglected areas which this initiative can start to address.”
There has been real progress in some aspects of scleroderma over the past 30 years - kidney failure and pulmonary hypertension are now more treatable. However these problems only affect a minority of patients, whereas other neglected aspects are much more frequent with very limited treatment. This includes pain, Raynaud's, digital ulcers, digestive tract disease (especially the bowels), calcinosis, fatigue, sexual dysfunction. The need to understand the cause and mechanism of these symptoms is very pressing, in order to develop better therapies and improve the lives of patients with Raynaud's and scleroderma. These topics will be priority areas for this initiative but scientific projects with potential for patient benefit will also be considered. We are therefore inviting everyone who has Raynaud's and/or scleroderma, their relatives and friends, to join us in a united effort to raise a million pounds over two years in the hope that the results of new and ongoing research, will help to improve the quality of life for people with these conditions.
By making a donation towards this ambitious but achievable project we sincerely hope that we can rely on your support and enthusiasm which could help people both now and in the future.
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So please dig deep and donate now.
