The Saint Lucia Lupus and Arthritis Association is reminding the public to join in highlighting the challenges faced by those living with arthritis during October, Arthritis Awareness Month.
The theme for this year, Achieve Your Dreams, emphasises the resilience of people with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases and aims to increase awareness about early diagnosis.
“One of the biggest challenges is the cost of care,” association spokesperson Hervianne Henry told St Lucia Times. “Arthritis is a chronic disease with no cure so the cost of daily medications, regular doctor’s visits and blood tests add up quickly.”
Early detection and lifestyle changes are crucial for managing symptoms.“Early detection helps to slow or stop the progression of the disease,”Henry said, adding that maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in low-impact exercise and having a balanced diet also help significantly.
These changes can reduce joint stress and pain and strengthen muscle.
The association continues to play an important role in educating both the public and healthcare providers. “We would like to play an even bigger role in supporting our members in more tangible ways,” Henry said.
She highlighted a recent achievement, securing a wheelchair through the Ministry of Health for a longstanding member with severe arthritis who is unable to walk.
October Awareness Activities:
- Rock Your Socks Fridays
- Wear blue socks every Friday in October
- Purpose: Spark conversations about arthritis and show solidarity
- Sunrise Beach Walk
- Date: Saturday, October 11
- Location: Vigie Beach
- Purpose: Promote movement and community support
- Bake Sale
- Date: Saturday, October 25
- Location: JQ Mall, Rodney Bay
- Purpose: Fundraising and public engagement
- Rock Donation Drive
- Ongoing throughout October
- Locations: Various
- Details: Donate $10 or more to receive a hand-painted kindness rock
