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My name is Joanne (or RoboJo) and since the age of 26 I have suffered with Rheumatoid Arthritis. This debilitating disease changed my life, I had to give up work and 18 years on I've had 2 major joint replacements and 4 other surgeries to correct deformities caused by the RA, with a few other operations on the horizon. I am fortunate to have a wonderful GP, Rheumatology team and Orthopaedic surgeon who keep me going (even if it means I'm being turned into a cyborg!)

Another important part of my life is the National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society (NRAS) I have been a member and volunteer for them for a number of years now, and they really have made a difference to my quality of life, helping others has made me feel that I'm not left on the scrapheap. I would like to help raise some funds for this patient led charity to help raise awareness about RA not only with the general public, but also with the medical professionals. NRAS offer help and support for the long term management of RA, which can affect people of any age.

As my last fundraiser was a somewhat relaxing event, this year I’m hoping to do something a bit more adventurous. So with this in mind my latest fund raising activity is..

Kings College Hospital Charity Abseil, London 4th July (Updated 5th July)

My first abseil is done. Under a wonderful clear blue London sky on July 4th, I abseiled from the top of the Golden Jubilee wing of Kings College Hospital.

You can find a few pics from the event here

It was quite a strain on my hands, which were a bit stiff for a day or so after the event, but it's all for a good cause.. now there's the next one to look forward to.

Pinnacle Challenge Charity Abseil, Fort Dunlop Birmingham,  18^th July (Updated 25th July)

I completed my second abseil to raise money for NRAS at Fort Dunlop in Birmingham on the 18th July. The event was staged by Pinnacle Challenge's Open Abseil

You can find a few pics from the event here

I was amazed at the response to my fund raiser last year, and hope I can raise some more for this wonderful charity.

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My sincere thanks to everyone who have supported me in both of my abseils, and to those who have kindly made a donation.

Thank You!!

Thanks to NRAS for the use of the NRAS Logo, and to Sara for customisation of it for the event.