Meg and I are going ‘Orange for AS' to support people out there like me, with axial SpA, an inflammatory condition of the spine and joints, causing extreme pain, exhaustion, and limited movement.

We have decided to do the 'Scarborough to Whitby cinder track walk' (with less pub stops and vowing to make it the whole way this time) to help raise awareness and funds for NASS. If you know either of us you’ll know we really enjoy our walks and we thought if we’re going to do a long one again then why not try raise a little money for people like me.

It’s a 22 mile walk in total, from our home in Scarborough to the Whitby end of the line. 8/9 years ago, that distance would have been impossible for me to complete.

If anyone would like to join us for a wander and a chat at any stage of the walk, for 1 mile or 10, you would be more than welcome, so don’t hesitate to get in touch so we can make a plan.

AS affects 1 in 200 adults in the UK – similar to MS and Parkinson’s combined. If left untreated and symptoms are not managed, axial SpA can permanently fuse the spine and joints. It’s an invisible and misdiagnosed condition with no cure.

This condition works silently, leaving individuals battling increasing pain and extreme exhaustion that make basic daily tasks and full-time employment very difficult.

Nearly a fifth of people with axial SpA receive no information when diagnosed. The National Axial Spondyloarthritis Society (NASS) is often the only place people can turn to for help.

Every contribution counts; just £10 can enable one person affected by axial SpA to receive essential information and support from the NASS Helpline team.

With your generous support, we can ensure that no one has to face this journey alone. Please consider donating towards our target of £150 so we can make a difference together.

Thank you,

Ronan and Meg.