Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

I decided to cycle the London to Paris bike ride some time ago, and have been deciding who or what to raise money for. I've been fortunate enough to have not been affected myself by any major illnesses or conditions. However what I have been affected by is the impact arthritis has had on my Nan. I think most of us will have witnessed the effects arthritis can have on someone, given that 1 in 5 adults in the UK are diagnosed with it. If you are one of the lucky ones that doesn't know someone with arthritis, I can tell you a little about it.

Arthritis means "inflammation of the joints". This means, that whenever someone with arithritis uses the affected joints, they are in pain. Arthritis Care identified 81% of those surveyed are in constant physical pain.

Around 10million people in the UK have arthritis. It affects people of all ages, and can have a devastating impact on the individual diagnosed and those around them. Arthitis can affect someone so badly, they may not be able to walk, or wash themselves or dress themselves. It takes away a persons independence, self-confidence and in some cases causes depression. I'm thankful my Nan has my Grandad to help her, but many don't have anyone.

It makes me sad to see my nan sad. To know that the only time she isn't in pain is when she is asleep. That it upsets her because she wants to be able to help out, to wash up, or make the dinner but she can't because it hurts too much.

I want to donate to Arthritis Care because of the work they do, with, and on behalf of the 10million people living with arithritis. They empower people to cope on their own, to carry on with work. They offer a helpline to those affected or those caring for someone, and campaign to make health and social care put Arthritis at the top of their agendas.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity. So it’s the most efficient way to donate – saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

Thank you to everyone that donates.