This May, me and my colleagues from the Population Health Management team at NHS England will be taking part in the 'Walk Your AS Off' step 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) is a rheumatic illness that affects an estimated 220,000 people in the UK. It causes inflammation primarily in the spine and hips where muscles attach to the bones, causing extreme pain, exhaustion and limited movement. It's an invisible and often misdiagnosed condition, and on average, 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've been living with AS since 2015, and am delighted that myself and colleagues are 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 we raise will make a big difference. Please dig deep and sponsor us!