Rebecca Young, Revitalise Director of External Affairs writes
ARTHRITIS is the most common cause of pain and physical disability in the UK, with around 10 million people affected, often finding their lives changing enormously by the pain of inflamed joints.
Today is World Arthritis Day, a global awareness day held to raise awareness of the condition. I would like to share with your readers a little about arthritis, and how the charity I work for, Revitalise, are able to support people living with arthritis.
Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis, causing joint pain and stiffness usually developing over time and frequently seen in the hands, knees, hips, feet and spine. Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory disease, mainly affecting joints and tendons, with inflamed joints appearing swollen and red. The disease usually starts in the wrists, hands or feet, and can spread to other joints and parts of the body.
Revitalise specialise in respite care breaks for people living with conditions related to arthritis and over 150 different disabilities. Our centres are purpose-built and fully accessible and every aspect of our guests’ holiday is tailored to their needs.
One of our guests, Tracy, was 27 years old when she noticed she was beginning to lose sensation and movement in both the left and right side of her body. Tracy was diagnosed with hemiplegic migraines and arthritis. Doctors recommended that Tracy exercise and swimming at the Revitalise Sandpipers hydrotherapy pool really helps her muscles and arthritis.
Tracy said:
“When my illness got a lot worse, I was in and out of hospital a lot and couldn’t go on holiday. I’ve now been using a wheelchair for the last two years. I wish I knew about Revitalise sooner. The main thing that I come away with is confidence. I don’t feel afraid or scared that I am disabled – instead, I’m made to feel that I can achieve things. People accept me for who I am.”
Treatments for arthritis vary from person to person, depending on the condition and focus on reducing symptoms and improving quality of life. Many of your readers may find an accessible break with Revitalise to be a fantastic additional support and enjoy the varied activities and excursions we offer.
Revitalise have opened holiday bookings for 2022 which include exclusive Early Bird discounts, giving guests huge savings if they book early for Jubilee Lodge in Essex or Sandpipers in Southport. These breaks create a supportive but stimulating environment where carers and their loved ones can enjoy a quality break together alongside care support from the Revitalise team.
To enquire about the specialised breaks available at Revitalise, call 0303 303 0145, email bookings@revitalise.org.
