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My name is Joanne (or RoboJo) and since the age of 26 I have suffered with Rheumatoid Arthritis. This debilitating disease changed my life, I had to give up work and 18 years on I've had major joint replacement of my hip and knee joints and 4 other surgeries to correct damage to my hands and feet caused by the RA, with a few other operations on the horizon including shoulder replacements and more foot surgery. I am fortunate to have a wonderful GP, Rheumatology team and Orthopaedic surgeon who keep me going (even if it means I'm being turned into a cyborg!)

Another important part of my life is the National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society (NRAS) I have been a member and volunteer for them for a number of years now, and they really have made a difference to my quality of life, helping others has made me feel that I'm not left on the scrapheap. I would like to help raise some funds for this patient led charity to help raise awareness about RA not only with the general public, but also with the medical professionals. NRAS offer help and support for the long term management of RA, which can affect people of any age.

This year marks NRAS's 10th Birthday, and to celebrate this I'm hoping to take part in a number of activities to help them continue the wonderful work they do in raising awareness of RA, supporting people and their families and producing some excellent publications on the many aspects the condition can have.

Completed Events

Trafford Centre Abseil - September 25th

I've now had my place confirmed to abseil down the 60m Bell Tower at the Trafford Centre at 4.30pm on Sunday 25th September.

Birmingham - Worcester Cycle Ride

I'll be cycling from Birmingham to Worcester using the towpath of the Birmingham - Worcester canal The total journey is 30 miles.

Completed 18/08/2011 - Total ride 32 miles!

Birmingham Sky Ride

I'll be taking part in the Birmingham Sky Ride, I'm hoping to do as many miles as I can around the traffic free circuit in Birmingham.

Completed 20 Miles - 28 3/4 with the ride to and from the event!

Great NRAS Rail Race 2

After the wonderful success of my first Rail Race, I'm planning a bigger better one for this year. This will start on Wednesday 8th June 2011. Visit the blog page linked for more information.

Completed! Thank you to those who have donated so far!

 
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My sincere thanks to everyone who have supported me in my previous fundraising activities, and to anyone who have kindly made a donation.