World Arthritis Day 12th October 2010

World Arthritis Day is the highlight of a year round campaign run by EULAR (European League Against Rheumatism) for people with rheumatic diseases.


The aims of World Arthritis Day are:

• To raise awareness of arthritis in all its forms among the medical community, people with arthritis and the general public 
• To influence public policy by making decision-makers aware of the burden of arthritis and the steps which can be taken to ease it 
• To ensure all people with arthritis and their caregivers are aware of the vast support network available to them.

It is marked each year on the 12th October and every year, the National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society (*NRAS) takes part in World Arthritis Day, which usually means that events take place throughout the week of 11th-15th October.

This year, NRAS would like to take its campaign directly to No 10 Downing Street. Representation from the charity and its membership, will arrive at No.10 when a letter addressed to the Prime Minister, The Right Hon. David Cameron will be handed over.


The letter will be accompanied by letters from NRAS Members highlighting what it is like to live with Rheumatoid Arthritis. It will be asking for the Prime Minister’s help to improve services and outcomes for people with Rheumatoid Arthritis.


I have been given the wonderful opportunity as a NRAS member of being able to attend No 10 Downing Street to help deliver these letters.


It would be a privilege if I could help take your experiences to the Prime Minister's Office.  


We are looking for examples that may include some or all of the following areas:


• Your experience in getting your diagnosis, was it months or even years before you were referred to a rheumatologist and were told what exactly was wrong with you?
• Do you have access to a full Multi-Disciplinary Team who can support you ? These team members consist of:
Rheumatologist
Specialist Rheumatology Nurse
Physiotherapy
Occupational Health
Podiatry
Psychological Support

• Can you access members of this Multi Disciplinary Team when you need to or do you have very long waits to see some team members?
• When you experience a flare, can you get the treatment and support that you need?
• Do you feel that you are listened too?


We just a need a brief letter explaining your experiences. 


You can email your letters to sally@nras.org.uk or you may post them to NRAS for Sally’s attention at:


NRAS 
Unit B4 Westacott Business Centre
Westacott Way
Littlewick Green
Maidenhead
Berkshire
SL6 3RT


This is a great opportunity to raise awareness of rheumatoid arthritis, and will help us to help raise the standards of care for all people who live with debilitating disease.


I'll keep you posted on how the day goes... Watch this space...






*NRAS is a private company limited by guarantee. Registered in England and Wales No: 7127101 Charity Nos: 1134859 SC039721

sally@nras.org.uk