Here is why I am taking part in this year's Strength-tember with NASS (National Axial Spondyloarthritis Society).

NASS is the only charity in the UK dedicated to supporting people with axial spondyloarthritis (AS), a painful, progressive rheumatic disease which mainly affects the spine. An estimated 200,000 people live with AS in the UK.

I was diagnosed with AS earlier this year, following an extremely painful jaw issue that came out of nowhere this time last year (I still have TMJ). I also have spine and SIJ problems. Since my diagnosis NASS, a charity I’d never heard about until a few months ago, has been an incredibly useful source of information and support.

So this is my chance to give something back. But at the same time do something I need to do (my Rheumatologist told me so!) - which is improve my overall strength, with Yoga for AS. So it’s a win win! I already do Pilates and have physio, but a key part of managing this condition is regular spinal movement. But I also need to build up my strength, stretching and cardio. My rheumatologist said I need to improve all of these - so this is perfect timing! And this is my Strength-tember challenge.

I’m now on medication which is starting to help (see pic). Other pic is when I was in hospital in Dec, having had surgery on my jaw - not pleasant, esp just before Xmas :-(

But here I am, now taking part in this challenge (Pilates pic) 💪🏻🏋️‍♀️ Then of course we have Brad Pitt (I still don’t know who the very kind anonymous ‘Brad’ is, but it still makes me howl) so thank you, and to all my very kind sponsors! 😘

Anyway, I’d be very grateful for anything you can give to this amazing charity. Thank you.