Inflammatory! is making a real difference, helping people feel seen, heard, and supported in their journey with inflammatory arthritis. If you’ve found value in what we do, please consider donating to help us continue creating meaningful content. Every contribution, big or small, makes a huge impact.

👉 Donate here: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/inflammatory

In this heartfelt and humorous Q&A episode, Debbie and Katy discuss the lighter and often hilarious side of living with Inflammatory Arthritis (IA). From hospital mishaps to dodging duty-free trolleys on long-haul flights, they share real-life stories that bring warmth and authenticity to chronic illness.

The episode kicks off with Katy sharing how her hospital appointments are never simple, this time, a burst water pipe added to the chaos. Despite the disruption, she still managed to get her blood test done and even turned it into a teaching moment for her son, explaining why regular tests are so important. Meanwhile, Debbie talks about the charity’s ongoing work, from ensuring the voices of those living with inflammatory arthritis are heard in NHS service improvements, to awaiting clarity on how the NHS’s 10-year plan will involve the charity sector. She also highlights meaningful discussions with researchers focused on making research truly inclusive and accessible at every stage.

They then go on to answer questions from listeners:

· What side effects have you had with medication?

· Pregnancy, medication and parenting

· What is the most obscure cure you have been told that would cure your IA?

· Do you have a funny story about inflammatory arthritis?

· How do you support a partner who lives with IA?

They end on thoughtful advice to partners supporting loved ones with IA and remind us that laughter and communication are powerful tools for navigating the ups and downs.

Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. We talk about our personal health journeys and the podcast is not intended to provide professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not medical professionals and in no way claim to be medically trained. The podcast does not take responsibility for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of the podcast. The podcast does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of third-party content.

For more information, head to https://inflammatoryarthritis.org/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Urgent appeal for donations to help keep the podcast running until their planned summer break. Donate here https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/inflammatory

Send us your questions for next week’s Q&A session, especially voice notes: https://inflammatoryarthritis.org/contact-us/

In this episode of Inflammatory!, Debbie and Katy firstly reflect on the first Inflammatory Arthritis UK virtual community event, where they connected with the IA community and received helpful feedback on future topics. Katy shares touching moments of how the podcast has helped others, including family members who have a better understand life with IA.

They then explore the vital role of research in improving care for people with inflammatory arthritis (IA). Katy shares her experiences participating in a range of studies, from surveys and focus groups to serving on research committees. The conversation highlights the importance of Public and Patient Involvement and Engagement (PPIE), showing how those with lived experience are essential in shaping research that truly matters.

They discuss being involved in steering groups and helping to design digital health apps, while also reflecting on the real-world challenges of integrating new technology into clinical care, illustrated with a humorous story about handwritten notes on a napkin after a system failure.

The episode also explores exciting areas of current research, including genetics, machine learning, and the MAPJAGstudy, which investigates what’s happening inside the joints by analysing biopsy samples from joint injections. Debbie and Katy emphasise how digital innovation and AI could transform diagnosis and treatment, while also urging caution around data privacy and the need for ethical use.

A key theme is ensuring research remains inclusive and accessible—including fair compensation that doesn’t impact benefits. Finally, the hosts encourage listeners to find ways to get involved in research, whether through clinical studies, reviewing patient information, or sharing their voices to guide future priorities.

Resources:

· Research page: https://inflammatoryarthritis.org/research/

· Link to Map-JAG Study here

· Tax implications from HMRC

“There will be no tax or NIC liability arising on the individual if the sums received do no more than reimburse the individual’s reasonable costs of participating in the trial or research, including costs of travel and subsistence. However, should the sums paid exceed those reasonable expenses then the excess may fall to be chargeable to tax as Miscellaneous Income, potentially giving rise to personal tax liabilities of the individuals which should be notified to the HMRC under Self Assessment”.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Inflammatory with Debbie and Katy, the hosts celebrate the important role nurses play in supporting people with inflammatory arthritis, particularly in the context of International Nurses Day and Mental Health Awareness Week.

They begin with a light-hearted catch-up about their weekends and segue into a candid discussion about mental health, personal experiences with stress, and the emotional impact of living with a fluctuating condition. Both hosts reflect on how weather and social environments affect their wellbeing, and the importance of being honest about mental health despite the British habit of saying “I’m fine.” They emphasise the need to normalise vulnerability and discuss how mental health and inflammatory arthritis are deeply connected.

They share personal experiences of how nurses often offer more empathetic and practical care compared to consultants, although their roles can sometimes feel limited to administrative tasks. Debbie shares a moving story about her daughter’s struggle with medication and how a nurse’s insight transformed her daughter’s quality of life, underscoring the critical role of compassionate healthcare professionals.

The conversation also highlights disparities in care due to regional differences and digital system inefficiencies within the NHS. The hosts praise the positive impact of nurse-led helplines and advocate for better integration and digital communication between services. The episode closes with an invitation to their first online community event to mark World Autoimmune and Auto-Inflammatory Arthritis Day.

🔗 Resources & Mentions:

Research paper: I’m Fine presentation is based on: ‘The current mental health status of children and young people with JIA, and their wider family’: a charity partner collaboration survey

📧 To attend the event, email: info@inflammatoryarthritis.org

🌐 Visit: inflammatoryarthritis.org

📱 Follow on: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | BlueSky

Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. We talk about our personal health journeys and the podcast is not intended to provide professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not medical professionals and in no way claim to be medically trained. The podcast does not take responsibility for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of the podcast. The podcast does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of third-party content.

For more information, head to https://inflammatoryarthritis.org/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week’s episode, hosts Debbie and Katy welcome their first guest, Rachell Smith, a leading portrait and fashion photographer who lives with axial spondyloarthritis (axial SpA) and is behind the new national campaign “Faces of Axial SpA”. Rachell opens up about her deeply personal journey, from experiencing symptoms as a teenager to finally being diagnosed over a decade later.

She discusses the vital role of family support, including her sister who also lives with axial SpA, and how the condition has brought her even closer to her husband. Rachell also shares how she navigates motherhood with a young daughter, emphasising the power of honest communication and emotional connection.

Rachell speaks candidly about how her diagnosis has increased her empathy, for others and for herself, and how this has come across in her photography. She also explains she is open with her clients about living with inflammatory arthritis and unashamed of her condition.

Most importantly, she talks about her impactful collaboration with NASS (National Axial Spondyloarthritis Society) on a national awareness campaign. Her mission: to empower others, shorten diagnostic delays, and break the silence around axial SpA.

Rachell’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and advocacy. Tune in for a moving conversation that highlights strength, vulnerability, and the importance of raising awareness.

🔗 Resources & Mentions:

· For more information about “Faces of Axial SpA” please visit: Faces of Axial SpA

· NASS website NASS.co.uk

• Learn more about axial SpA and access the symptom checker: symptom checker
• Follow Rachell on Instagram: @rachell_photo

This podcast is in collaboration with National Axial Spondyloarthritis Society

Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. We talk about our personal health journeys and the podcast is not intended to provide professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not medical professionals and in no way claim to be medically trained. The podcast does not take responsibility for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of the podcast. The podcast does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of third-party content.

For more information, head to https://inflammatoryarthritis.org/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Inflammatory Arthritis UK are hosting their first ever online event on the 20 May at 6-7pm to raise awareness of World Autoimmune and Autoinflammatory Arthritis Day. Please do join us and a chance to meet Debbie and Katy online to hear more about the charity and be part of our community. More information and full agenda will follow. Please do join us and to sign up email us at: info@inflammatoryarthritis.org

In this lively and heartfelt episode, Debbie and Katy reflect on a busy week and preview next week's exciting guest — acclaimed photographer Rachell Smith, who lives with axial spondyloarthritis. Please make sure you don’t miss it.

Debbie covers how she did a Katy, and went to the wrong hospital for an Xray, and they kick off their fourth Q&A session by answering a question about traveling while taking biologic medications. The hosts share their own travel tips, stress the importance of medical guidance, and offer reassurance for those navigating similar journeys.

Next, the conversation turns to sleep and inflammatory arthritis. From bedtime routines and positioning to gadgets and frustrations, Debbie and Katy talk openly about what helps — and what doesn’t — when it comes to getting quality rest with a chronic condition.

They also tackle the question of whether inflammatory arthritis is more common in females, exploring key differences between RA, axial SpA, PsA, and juvenile arthritis. They address what frustrates them most about living with IA and they cover widespread misconceptions, including the confusion between inflammatory and osteoarthritis, and highlight the need for more male representation in arthritis narratives.

The episode wraps up on a fun note with each host sharing their go-to feel-good songs and how music brings moments of joy amid daily challenges.

💬 Topics Covered:

• Traveling with biologic medications
• Sleep challenges and hacks
• Gender and arthritis prevalence
• Inflammatory vs. osteoarthritis
• Personal reflections and musical cheer

Join us next week for our special guest, Rachell Smith!

Follow us on social media:

• BlueSky, LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook:Search for Inflammatory Arthritis UK
• Sign up for our weekly newsletter for updates and resources
• Leave a review & rating on your favourite podcast platform!

Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. We talk about our personal health journeys and the podcast is not intended to provide professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not medical professionals and in no way claim to be medically trained. The podcast does not take responsibility for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of the podcast. The podcast does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of third-party content.

For more information, head to https://inflammatoryarthritis.org/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Inflammatory!, Debbie and Katy kick things off with a light-hearted chat about springtime chaos, parenting, and the never-ending battle with household cleaning, offering a humorous but relatable peek into how daily life intersects with chronic illness. The conversation then dives into a powerful and personal discussion about exercise and inflammatory arthritis, challenging outdated fitness ideology of "no pain, no gain."

Katy opens up about her journey training for marathons post-diagnosis, including a dramatic fall at mile 20 of the Edinburgh Marathon and her later attempt at the Brighton Marathon, complete with new injuries and mid-race regrets (sausage roll, anyone?). Through these stories, she highlights the emotional highs and lows of pushing her limits and adapting workouts to suit her body.

The hosts reflect on how chronic illness shape how they move, underscoring that exercise doesn't have to be extreme to be effective. Whether it’s swimming, strength training, or simply taking a short walk, finding what works for you is key. They also touch on the mental and emotional benefits of movement, the value of physiotherapy, and how changing the narrative from "can't" to "can" empowers people living with inflammatory arthritis.

Key Topics:

• Redefining exercise with chronic illness

• Katy’s marathon stories: Edinburgh disaster & Brighton comeback

• How age and parenting shift fitness goals

• Mental health benefits of movement

• Making peace with low-impact, feel-good movement

• Physiotherapy: importance and asking how it can fit it into your daily routine

• Encouragement to focus on what you can do

Follow us on social media:

• BlueSky, LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook: Search for Inflammatory Arthritis UK

• Sign up for our weekly newsletter for updates and resources

• Leave a review & rating on your favourite podcast platform!

Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. We talk about our personal health journeys and the podcast is not intended to provide professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not medical professionals and in no way claim to be medically trained. The podcast does not take responsibility for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of the podcast. The podcast does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of third-party content.

For more information, head to https://inflammatoryarthritis.org/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Inflammatory, Debbie and Katy get real about how even a simple cold can wreak havoc when you're living with inflammatory arthritis (IA). Debbie opens up about a recent bout of illness that hit her hard and amplified her joint pain (especially in her jaw), flaring up her fibromyalgia, and throwing her reactive hypoglycaemia into chaos. Katy, on the other hand, shares her experience of rarely getting sick despite being on medication, and reflects on the fear and uncertainty she felt early in the COVID pandemic.

Together, they explore how illness can throw off everything—energy levels, medication schedules, even mental health. They talk about the tricky balance between rest and movement, how stress (even over little things) can spark flares, and the lingering emotional impact of being extra cautious during COVID. There’s also a candid discussion around how isolating chronic illness can be, especially when others don’t see or understand what you’re going through and how you can feel like a prisoner in your own body.

Throughout the conversation, Debbie and Katy emphasize that no two journeys with IA are the same—but community, honesty, and listening to your own body can make all the difference.

🎙️ In this episode:

• How minor illnesses can trigger major flares

• The toll of managing multiple conditions at once

• Reactive hypoglycaemia + IA = a tough combo

• Pandemic stress and long-term mental health impacts

• Why self-awareness and a holistic mindset matter

👉 Subscribe to our newsletter at inflammatoryarthritis.org, and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Blue Sky (search for Inflammatory Arthritis). We’ll be back after a short Easter break—see you then!

Leave a review & rating on your favourite podcast platform!

Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. We talk about our personal health journeys and the podcast is not intended to provide professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not medical professionals and in no way claim to be medically trained. The podcast does not take responsibility for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of the podcast. The podcast does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of third-party content.

For more information, head to https://inflammatoryarthritis.org/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this powerful and heartfelt episode, hosts Debbie and Katie, both parents living with inflammatory arthritis (IA), share their experiences balancing parenthood with chronic illness. They discuss the challenges of raising children while managing IA, the importance of awareness, support networks, and resilience.

Firstly, they share their recent experience attending an event at the House of Parliament with the National Axial Spondyloarthritis Society (NASS), advocating for faster diagnosis times. The event was a great success, and they were thrilled to receive recognition for their podcast and charity work. They also discussed their charity Board Awayday, how they are developing the charity to help improve the lives of anyone living with IA. Along with the importance of fundraising to continue their work. They share moving listener stories about how the podcast has helped them feel less alone and where you can donate, at our website Inflammatoryarthritis.org

The hosts go on to explore how their children knew about their inflammatory arthritis and has IA enabled them to be better parents? They discuss the use of age-appropriate language being key to help foster compassion and resilience, and Debbie shares the TikTok she watched from a rheumatologist explain the immune system like a sound system, and for auto-immune diseases the volume is turned up and the medications help to turn it down again.

The also explore balancing honesty with protecting childhood innocence, the role of young carers programs and support systems and how amongst all the hard times of IA this can create a kinder more empathic child.

Please do continue to:

💜 Support Their Work – Donate or take part in fundraising efforts.

📢 Raise Awareness – Share this episode to help educate and support those affected by IA.

🎧 Stay Connected – Subscribe to the podcast for more stories, insights, and advocacy updates.

📧Sign up to our newsletter at Inflamamtoryarthritis.org

This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating chronic illness, parenting, or wanting to support those living with IA. Tune in for insight, encouragement, and inspiration! 🎙️

Follow us on social media:

• BlueSky, LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook: Search for Inflammatory Arthritis UK

• Sign up for our weekly newsletter for updates and resources

• Leave a review & rating on your favorrite podcast platform!

Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. We talk about our personal health journeys and the podcast is not intended to provide professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not medical professionals and in no way claim to be medically trained. The podcast does not take responsibility for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of the podcast. The podcast does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of third-party content.

For more information, head to https://inflammatoryarthritis.org/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.