Hello from Scotland

catohara95

hi guys,

I am Cat, I am 28 years old and live in Edinburgh. I was diagnosed with moderate to severe osteoarthritis in my left hip in June 2023. I am on the waiting list for a hip replacement.

For the past year I’ve felt very isolated. I struggle to talk about my condition with my friends as I’m very active and don’t want to be treated differently. I thought I’d make a post here and see what happens.

I’d love to have an OA buddy if anyone wants a chat. Does anyone know if there are any young people’s support groups in Scotland? I’d really like to have a friend who has shared lived experience of OA.

Thanks

Cat

Billy85

Hi Cat, I'm 39 and live in Ayrshire. I have Osteoarthritis in the hips and back, I also have Psoriatic Arthritis.

My right hip became severe around March 2023, been on the waiting list for a replacement since December, so 6 months now. Was told I would wait around 6 months so here's hoping I hear something soon.

My hip got so bad I had to go off work sick at the end of February this year.

Hope you don't have to wait too long for yours.

Billy

catohara95

hey Billy

thanks for replying and sharing your diagnosis and treatment.

That’s awful the pain is so severe for you!

Are you still off sick? I hope you’re able to find enjoyable things to do whilst you are unable to work. I am mentally and physically exhausted and feel like I am on the verge of going off work sick but trying to push through it. I feel ashamed to tell work about it. My manager knows and advised I speak to the senior manager because “she is getting old and is having trouble herself”… it just made me feel so much worse

Billy85

Hi Cat, yes I'm still off sick. I don't do much now as I wait for a date for my operation.

I was the same, pushed through for as long as I could at work. Asked for lighter duties and they couldn't give me any so spoke to occupational health and ended up going off on the sick till I've had my treatment.

Your work/manager have to make adjustments to help you cope. I hope you get something sorted soon.

Anna

Hi @catohara95 , just wanted to give you a warm welcome to the community,

Arthritis can seem very isolating but you’ve come to right place to make friends and get support. Several other young people have recently posted in the Young People’s community - perhaps you could start chatting with them? Maybe respond to their posts and see what happens. @MeVSRA @EmmaLeigh278456 @rosiematthews837

All the best,

Anna ( Moderator)