What are PMR and GCA?

PMR and GCA are little known diseases that typically affect people over 50 although can occasionally affect people in their 40s.

Some people will recover within two years but for many it will take much longer and the effects can be life changing. GCA is a leading medical cause of sudden onset, irreversible sight-loss.

Things that we take for granted can become difficult or even impossible for a patient with PMR or GCA. For example, going to work, taking a holiday, living without pain or fatigue, or simply being able to get out of bed or put socks and shoes on without assistance. So walking a marathon - or even part of one - over a month can be a real challenge.

The disease and the medication can make people feel ill, fatigued, in pain and not able to do the things they used to do. Even as they start to get better and reduce their medication, their adrenal glands may not start producing cortisol for a considerable time afterwards and this can also be deblitating.

Find out more with these patient videos.

How we help

We raise awareness, and provide information and support to patients through our helpline, online forum, support groups, information packs, website and members.

We also work with the medical community, and with national and international research teams to gain a greater understanding of the diseases and impact on patients.

How you can help

By joining in and walking a marathon in July or making a donation, you can make a difference to someone who has PMR or GCA.

A marathon is 26.2 miles. A mile is around 2,000 steps. This might seem easy, but for many with PMR or GCA, the fatigue and pain can make this a hard, or even impossible, task.