Daughter to run half marathon inspired by mother living with rheumatoid arthritis

INSPIRED by her mother, who manages chronic pain and fatigue on a daily  basis because of rheumatoid arthritis, a local woman will run the Bath Half Marathon to raise money for charity.

Georgina Higdon will tackle the 13.1 miles on Sunday 4th March for the National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society (NRAS).

“I’m really nervous and excited to take part, but I’m looking forward to the day, the atmosphere will be so good,” said Georgina. “I’m doing this run for my mum. She lives with and manages her condition on a daily basis and I want to help raise awareness about rheumatoid arthritis and NRAS.

“I used to be really sporty at school and I was a half decent runner, so training has been going well, but it was hard at first. I’m loving it now and I’ve got up to 10 miles on a run.”

Georgina’s mother, Katy Broom, was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis six years ago and is often in chronic pain.

“There are good days and there are bad days,” explained Katy. “When I’m having a bad day, the pain can be difficult to live with. For example, the pain in my feet can feel like someone in stilettos accidentally standing on them, but the pain doesn’t go away.

“To manage the rheumatoid arthritis I am being treated with a biologic. This is what has caused my hair-loss, and other side effects.

“People often misunderstand what rheumatoid arthritis is and when they hear the word ‘arthritis’ they assume it’s something that you might get as you get older. But rheumatoid arthritis is different, it is an auto-immune condition. Basically my immune system is attacking my own body.

“I think it’s wonderful that Georgina is doing this and raising awareness for the condition and the charity. I take my hat off to her. I’m so proud of her.”

To sponsor Georgina, visit: www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/georginahigdon

For more information about rheumatoid arthritis, visit the NRAS website: www.nras.org.uk