This May, I am taking part in the Walk Your AS Off challenge to raise awareness about axial SpA, and vital funds to transform the diagnosis and care of people living with axial SpA.Axial spondyloarthritis (axial SpA) affects an estimated 220,000 people in the UK. Inflammation, where muscles attach to the bones, cause extreme pain, exhaustion and limited movement. It's an invisible and often misdiagnosed condition, and on average, it takes over eight years to receive a diagnosis. If left untreated and if symptoms are not managed, axial SpA can permanently fuse the bones.I'm fundraising to support NASS, the only charity in the UK dedicated to transforming the diagnosis, care and treatment of everyone living with axial SpA. NASS doesn't receive any statutory funding, so every penny I raise will make a big difference. Please dig deep and sponsor me.

As most of you know my son has this condition. An earlier diagnosis could have made his life different. Most people have no idea what this condition is. It’s pretty rubbish and particularly because there is no cure and one’s life becomes mostly about pain management and adapting to restrictions of movement. 

NASS does some good work an£ has made some progress with bettering earlier diagnosis.