A new support group's been set up for people in Kendal and South Cumbria suffering with rheumatoid arthritis.
It's being launched at the Westmorland General Hospital today.
Advice and a friendly face will be on hand to support patients and their families and friends.
There's currently no cure for progressive condition which cause pain, stiffness and joint damage.
Gill Weedon, External Projects and Groups Supervisor, NRAS said: “NRAS and UHMBT are working together to encourage people with Rheumatoid or Inflammatory Arthritis living in the Kendal and surrounding areas, to attend the meeting on 18 May to find out more about the disease, local rheumatology services and the invaluable resources on offer to them from the Trust and NRAS.
“The event is free and everyone is welcome to attend. You do not need to be a either a patient at WGH or a member of NRAS to attend. There will be short presentations from the WGH rheumatology team and an interactive question and answer session, offering attendees the opportunity to ask questions to a special panel of expert healthcare professionals.
“The group will offer mutual support, information and the opportunity for patients to contribute to the development of long term patient care within their local NHS and have regular interaction with health care professionals.
“If you are living with Rheumatoid or Inflammatory Arthritis, or know someone living with the condition, please pass this information onto them - this is an open invitation!”
Liz Axten, Ward Manager on the Dunmail Treatment Centre at WGH, said: “We are really pleased to be working with the NRAS to provide a support group for local people living with Rheumatoid arthritis. We hope that by raising awareness of the types of help available and having a support network will really will help those directly suffering with the condition and their loved ones. We hope to see as many people there as possible.”