Christmas can be an exciting time but for Arthritis sufferers it can be a lonely time as the pain and unpredictable nature of the disease can prevent social engagements and cause people to feel isolated.

Debbie Griffin has lived with arthritis since she was a child and speaks honestly about how she finds Christmas. Follow the link below to listen to her story. Credit: ITV Cymru Wales.

https://www.itv.com/news/wales/2018-12-11/the-reality-of-living-with-arthritis-as-a-young-person/

Arthritis affects 10 million people in the UK. The condition can fluctuate from day to day, which means many people find it difficult to make or keep plans with friends and family.

In a recent report it was highlighted that

• Three quarters (73%) of young people with arthritis avoid making plans for social occasions because of their condition.

 

• Three quarters (76%) are forced to cancel plans with family and friends because of pain and fatigue.

 

• More than half (52%) of young people with arthritis feel lonely because of their arthritis, compared to a quarter (27%) across all ages.

 

Our founder and inventor of our Uccello Kettle; Andy de Petra, suffered from Arthritis in his hands, so we’re delighted to see so much help and resources currently available on Versus Arthritis.

Versus Arthritis have 10 Tips to help you cope over the Christmas period follow the link below:

https://www.versusarthritis.org/news/news/10-tips-to-help-you-cope-with-christmas/

Their website is a great source of information and support. You can view the full website here:

https://www.versusarthritis.org/