I was diagnosed in 2015 whilst studying in Australia. Since diagnosis I have been on biologic medication to help control my axial SpA (AS). Training to be a paramedic with axial SpA (AS) has been an eventful journey, with many bumps along the way.
Growing up in a medical household led me to have a fascination in all things medical, and delving into the pre-hospital field has been an eye opening, rewarding and exhilarating experience.
I wanted to take on a career which is well known to put great strain on the body.
Many paramedics retire early with back issues. At my very first occupational health appointment I was questioned if this career would be right for me. This made me question my choices.
I felt they were putting a label on me. That axial SpA (AS) was just seen as a crippling disorder. I knew this wasn’t the case.
It’s an incredibly variable condition and everyone has a different story. I did not want my axial SpA (AS) to determine my life path for me. I felt confident my axial SpA (AS) was well under control, and I planned to remain active so that my joints stayed as strong and healthy as possible.
Three years on, I can happily say my axial SpA (AS) hasn’t got in the way of my profession.
I do get pain when sitting for long periods in the ambulance and when I am doing more manual handling than usual on particular jobs. However, I stick to a stretching and yoga regime which prepares me well for my shift, and I had gotten into a habit of swimming regularly which eases my pain on my days off.
Prior to the covid outbreak I was only several weeks from finishing and qualifying to be a paramedic. After three years of hard work, I ready to be an independent paramedic working on the front line.
At the start of the lockdown it was decided that, because I take biologic medication, I had to be taken off the road. This means my qualification has had to be delayed and I will be starting my job as a paramedic later than hoped.
During lockdown, not able to work and with swimming pools closed, I have struggled. I felt frustrated I could not finish my course and start my dream profession. I felt jealous of my friends who were able to qualify early, and start work while I have been stuck at home.
My pain became more frequent and I suffered a bad flare up. Mentally, this took a toll on me and I desperately wanted to get back into a routine so I was ready to go back on the road as soon as I can.
I invested in a TENS machine which has been a great help with the pain. I can only speak from personal experience, but I really recommend them. I’ve got back into have been stretching daily, and trying to go on frequent walks to free my mind and appreciate the nature around me.
I hope by the time this article is published I’ll be qualified and working in my dream job!
This blog was written by Monika, who became NASS’s youngest trustee when she was elected at the age of 21. She aims to raise awareness and spread support to young people dealing with a diagnosis
