Wendy Davies

I'm taking part in #walktoworldarthritisday in support of Versus Arthritis.  

By taking on this challenge I will be raising vital money to continue to invest in world-class research, delivering high-quality services to support those effected by arthritis and campaigning on issues that matter the most to people with arthritis. 

MY STORY 

Not a lot of people know that I have arthritis as it’s not something I talk about, so if you didn’t know I have hidden it well! but it is something I have been struggling with since the age of 18.   

So how did it all start? Well as I said I was about 18 when I started getting pain in my left wrist. I went to the doctor, and they said it looked like repetitive strain and said to take some pain relief and rest it. I did rest it, but the pain never went away and I suffered for a number of years with no real answer.  It wasn’t until I changed doctors and explained to my new doctor what my symptoms were that I felt I was being listened to and they felt that further investigations were needed to understand what was going on. I was sent for blood tests and bone scans of my wrist. The results of the tests and bone scans revealed that I had arthritis (which had progressed) and I would need to take medication for the rest of my life. It felt like a real blow as if I had known earlier I could have started treatment sooner, but I felt some relief to know why I was in pain and what the treatment plan was going forwards. 

Fast forward to today, 37 years later, and I have tried and tested different medications and had various surgeries on my fingers and toes including a total wrist replacement on my left hand. 

I do consider myself lucky that I can get out and walk as walking can be one of the best ways to feel good and live a healthier life, especially if you have arthritis. Whether that be walking to work, walking your dog or even walking around your house doing the hoovering, it all helps!  

 Your sponsorship will really help make a difference to the 10 million people in the UK who are affected by arthritis. Together we can work towards the ultimate vision - a future free from arthritis!  

To donate, visit my page using the URL link below.  

https://fundraise.versusarthritis.org/fundraisers/mrswdavies 
Thank you so much for your support - it is genuinely appreciated. 

Wendy