Anyone who knows me well, will know that for many years I have been struggling with undiagnosed health problems. Earlier this year, I finally received a diagnosis of Axial SpA, which unfortunately is quite advanced. This condition has changed me and my life in more ways than anyone could imagine. I have felt extremely isolated dealing with the impact this has had on me, on my relationships, friendships, career and socialising. Having taken some time to join some groups online, I am now a member of NASS, and in an attempt to meet other people who have been on a similar journey to diagnosis and battle daily with this disease, I am going to join Stretch-tember. If I could raise just a small amount for this much needed charity it would be fantastic, however just to raise awareness of this disease would help me, other sufferers and NASS greatly. For anyone who has never heard of Axial SpA, the below explains more about Stretch-tember and the condition itself.

This September, I am taking part in NASS Stretch-tember 2024. I will be moving more and stretching more to help me cope with the pain and exhaustion I experience due to living with axial SpA, an inflammatory condition of the spine and joints, causing extreme pain, exhaustion, and limited movement.

Axial SpA affects 1 in 200 people in the UK – twice as many as multiple sclerosis or Parkinson’s. If left untreated and symptoms are unmanaged, it can permanently fuse the spine and joints.

It’s an invisible and misdiagnosed condition with no cure. It works silently, leaving people feeling isolated and powerless, in increasing pain and extreme exhaustion, making basic daily tasks and full-time employment very difficult, or even impossible.

Your support has never been more urgent. Thousands of people receive little or no NHS information or support. Just £10 can help provide information and support for one person with axial SpA when they most need it.