In April 2025, our family’s life changed in a way we never expected.

Our son Fynn, a sporty, energetic 14‑year‑old who loves rugby, football and being active, was admitted to hospital with a swollen knee and elbow. What we thought might be a short stay quickly became a week of investigations, tests, and uncertainty. During that week, Fynn was given home leave so he could attend his rugby presentation — a moment that meant so much to him — before having to return to hospital for even more tests.

He was eventually allowed home again, this time on crutches, followed by an urgent referral to the Rheumatology Department at Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital. Over the months that followed, Fynn underwent steroid treatments, joint injections, and countless appointments. Despite everything, the swelling and pain persisted.

For eight long months, we lived with uncertainty. Watching a once very active teenager struggle with pain, mobility issues, and not knowing what the future held was incredibly hard — not just for Fynn, but for our whole family. As the oldest brother of three living in Burnley, Fynn tried to stay strong, even while dealing with his own worries. His biggest fear was having to give up the sports he loves so much.

Eventually, Fynn was diagnosed with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) and was finally able to begin the right treatment. While the diagnosis was daunting, it also brought clarity and hope — and for that, we are deeply grateful.

Throughout this journey, the support we received from Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital, especially Dr Riley’s Rheumatology Department, has been nothing short of incredible. The staff were compassionate, patient, and supportive not only to Fynn, but to all of us as a family. They helped us understand the condition, come to terms with the diagnosis, and reassured us that Fynn was never facing this alone.

A message from Fynn:

“When my knee and elbow first swelled up, I didn’t understand what was happening, and not knowing was the worst part. Being told I had arthritis at 14 was scary, especially because sport is such a big part of my life.

The doctors and nurses at Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital helped me and my family so much. They always explained things and made me feel supported. I’m doing this challenge because I want to help other kids like me and say thank you to everyone who helped me get back to doing what I love.”

To say thank you, and to support other families going through similar experiences, we are taking on the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge, walking all three peaks within 12 hours as a family. This challenge represents resilience, determination, and strength — the same qualities Fynn has shown every single day.

Every donation raised will support juvenile arthritis services at Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital through Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust Charity, helping fund vital care, specialist treatment, research, and support for children and families.

If you are able to donate, share, or support us in any way, we would be incredibly grateful. Together, we can help make a real difference for children living with juvenile arthritis.

Thank you for reading and supporting this cause.