Kirsty's Story: Living with Rheumatoid Arthritis

Arthritis isn’t typically something you’d associate with younger people, but for some, it’s something they live with. An autoimmune condition, rheumatoid arthritis is more common in women. Typically it doesn’t develop until the ages of 40-50, although it is one of the more common types of arthritis. This is Kirsty’s story. Here’s how she deals with the condition, and how mountain biking gives her freedom.

Any condition can be isolating, and the past 18 months have been very difficult, even for those in good health. This story is about Kirsty, a young woman living with rheumatoid arthritis and what this means for her. It was after she started riding that she was diagnosed. Here’s what she’s faced since diagnosis, including being told to self-isolate during the pandemic.

Kirsty has Rheumatoid Arthritis and spent lockdown in isolation. The first time she felt defined by her chronic illness, Kirsty struggled with admitting that she is vulnerable. She has always loved the thrill of riding her full-suspension mountain bike, but at the height of the pandemic, Kirsty didn’t want to take unnecessary risks. Instead, she bought a new hardtail mountain bike and discovered a whole new world of cycling routes on her doorstep.
This summer, Kirsty is looking forward to riding the trails with friends and won’t take that freedom for granted – plans will never be put on hold again. This is Kirsty’s Golden Summer.
As a member of staff at Sigma Sports, Kirsty has always been inspirational to us – we hope she inspires you too.
Sigma Sports

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Lauren Jenkins

Not too good about writing about myself, but not so bad at writing about other things. There was a time that I hated bikes, but then they became my life. Wouldn't be the person I am if I hadn't been on this journey. Here's to bikes, drinking tea and everything that comes with life on two wheels. I'm Lauren, I like bikes and writing about them. Always trying my best and up for adventures.