Personal Stories

Long-time Arthritis Action Member Candida Doyle, former keyboard player of Sheffield band Pulp, talks about her personal journey as a musician with arthritis, since receiving her diagnosis as a teenager.

Forty-year-old Charlotte Walker, a Member of Arthritis Action, opens up about her arthritis on the 22nd World Arthritis Day, on 12th October 2017. She was diagnosed with osteoarthritis at the age of 34, and was subsequently diagnosed with fibromyalgia and joint hypermobility.

Our London-based Member Jennifer McKenzie was diagnosed with arthritis in 2002. Watch her video to find out how Jenny applied self-management to manage the symptoms of her arthritis.

John Penny, a Member since February 2016, was impressed to discover physical exercise would be something he enjoyed, let alone have such a positive impact on his life with arthritis!

Vera and Stella were brought together as Members of  the Kent Group, where they developed a strong friendship, beyond supporting each other through their experience of arthritis.

Tom Roberts, diagnosed with arthritis in his 40s, discovered self-management and hasn’t looked back since. Watch the inspirational video, of how he turned his perspective around and regained a positive outlook, for a happier life.

Volunteer and Member Leigh, is a Paralympic Archer who competed in the London 2012 Games representing Team GB. Leigh shares her experience of an early diagnosis of arthritis, and the impact it has had on her life.

Running Enthusiast Sue, aged 65, tells us about living with arthritis for almost 30 years and how her hobby keeps her positive while managing the symptoms of arthritis.

Mort, 70, reveals the huge impact of being diagnosed with osteoarthritis and how a sense of community has opened his eyes to living a full, happier life with his arthritis.

Paula, tells her story of living with arthritis while caring for her newborn, and how self-management techniques have helped her reduce the symptoms of arthritis.

Cyclist Josh was diagnosed with arthritis aged 28, but remained determined to stay active and continue pushing himself to achieve extraordinary things.

Richard reveals how keeping fit and carefully managing his surroundings has helped him manage his arthritis and maintain a healthy, happy life, 20 years after his initial diagnosis.

Arthritis Action member and travel-enthusiast Leslie discusses how he has adapted to living with arthritis and doesn’t let his diagnosis hold him back.

Jack has lived with arthritis for over 30 years, and has learnt how to self-manage his symptoms for a healthier, happier life.

20-year-old Tanya shares how speaking about her musculoskeletal conditions with like-minded individuals helped her to take back control and manage her conditions.

39-year-old Jack shares his arthritis journey, from a difficult diagnosis to learning to accept himself and his condition.

Ivor challenged himself to complete a monumental 200 mile bike tour in 5 days as a way to manage his arthritis and open up his horizons again.

29 year old Dasha discusses her difficult diagnosis journey as a young adult living with arthritis.

Lucy found it difficult to maintain the same quality of life after being diagnosed with arthritis, but found like-minded people to share her story and experiences with through Arthritis Action.

Cat found it difficult to be diagnosed with arthritis during the Covid-19 lockdown, but quickly learnt to take control of her condition and self-manage her symptoms.

Helen was diagnosed with arthritis by chance during a regular asthma appointment, and quickly learnt how important it can be to keep active and healthy while living with arthritis.

Steven lives with arthritis in his spine, but has learnt to decrease his pain levels and reduce fatigue through healthy eating and staying active.

Glynis had lived with some form of arthritis since she was 18, but over the years has learnt the best ways that work for her to manage her condition and live a healthier life.

Sarah first noticed arthritis symptoms in her 30s before learning the little things she can do for herself to improve her health and reduce painful symptoms.

Matt had a difficult time explaining his gout to others when diagnosed at 18, but over time has found learnt to manage his condition and live the life he wants.

Dipesh started experiencing pain when he was 26. He discovered relief from his arthritis symptoms when he learnt how to swim as an adult, and discovered self-management.

Gill’s first memory of painful joints dates back to when she was 13. Now in her 80s, Gill speaks of the importance of being active for body and mind, practising self-management and learning more about good nutrition and looking after her health.

Sophie, a 39 year old single parent, works in Customer Services in IT and has inflammatory arthritis. She explains that having boundaries and not trying to “do it all” are key components in managing her arthritis.

Personal trainer Kaytie Hayward, 32, lives with a very rare form of inflammatory arthritis know as Still’s Disease. Her symptoms first started when she was 13, affecting her dreams to perform on stage. Kaytie has found exercise a powerful tool in managing her symptoms.

Arthritis Action’s Trustee Elizabeth’s has always been a very active person, so when her symptoms started in the pandemic, her mind didn’t go to arthritis. She shares her experience of coming to terms with her diagnosis, and speaking to her employers.

Graham, age 51, a Senior Leader in education was diagnosed in 2019 with osteoarthritis and hip dysplasia.  Staying active and enjoying sport is in my blood, I have been involved in a huge range of sports from a young age. So exercise is key for me too in managing my arthritis, but I have to ensure I include some gentle exercise; stretching is very important.

IT Consultant Nina, 44, had lived with pain since her early years, but only discovered effective treatment after a long journey to getting a diagnosis of seronegative inflammatory arthritis.