Christmas is going to be very different this year for a variety of reasons but here at Arthritis Ireland our work continues and the need for our services has never felt greater! One million people are living with arthritis in Ireland, many of whom have been severely impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic, due to being immunosuppressed or aged over 70.

Living with a chronic condition like arthritis, can leave people feeling overwhelmed, isolated, misunderstood and disempowered but being able to connect with someone who understands is incredibly empowering. This year our helpline and online support have seen a dramatic increase in numbers during these times, as we continue to offer much needed advice and information and connect people living with arthritis to other organisations and community supports. This is why we are working tirelessly to develop and implement further online initiatives like our online self management classes or exercise classes to support anyone suffering from arthritis. 

But to do this alongside our existing work we need vital funding and this is where we have really struggled in 2020. We were not alone in this but as you know, we were forced to cancel the majority of our fundraising events this year, which has had a huge impact on the work we can and can't do this year and beyond.

This is why we are reaching out to you to help people with arthritis. We would ask that if you are in a position to support our work this Christmas that you donate below or share this link with your friends, colleagues or family. Your donation will make such an incredible difference; not only to the people directly affected, but also to their loved ones.

From everyone at Arthritis Ireland, we wish you and your family, above all else, a safe, healthy and Happy Christmas.