After disclosing his arthritis diagnosis, Adam Thomas has immersed himself into Strictly Come Dancing practises.
The actor from Waterloo recently stated that the dance performance couldn’t have come at a better moment for him, and he’s definitely enjoying the experience. The 35-year-old was photographed outside the dancing studio with his other contenders, including Annabel Croft, looking excited.
Although he appears to be enjoying his participation in the BBC dancing competition, he has admitted that he suffers from arthritic discomfort and is learning to handle it.
Fortunately, he has a supportive family, including his wife of six years, Caroline Daly, and their two children, Teddy and Elsie-Rose.
‘I’ve been in a lot of pain since January, it started with my knees and then travelled to my wrists, fingers and now ankles and toes,’ he wrote on Instagram.
‘I never knew what was happening and finally after several blood tests and back and forth to doctors and hospitals, I’ve been diagnosed with rheumatoid Arthritis!
‘I thought that was something people, later on in there life get… but that’s not the case, clearly!
‘It’s been a tough old year but … Finally I’m on the right plan now! Finally getting it under control. For now! 👀
‘But some days are better than others and am not going to lie, it’s been hard not being able to train properly, it’s has had a huge knock on effect for me personally, but not only that for my family too!!’
The NHS defines arthritis as a “long-term disorder that causes pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints,” with the hands, feet, and wrists being the most commonly afflicted.
There is no cure, although early detection and treatment can reduce the frequency of “flare-ups.” However, depending on the intensity of the pain, stiffness, and edoema, patients may find doing daily duties more difficult and must adjust accordingly.
The actor stated that Strictly would be “difficult,” but he’s “ready for the challenge” and “can’t wait to get on the dance floor.”
It’s a struggle, but Adam is already having a good time. He celebrated his birthday with Nigel Harman yesterday.
Sharing a video of them in a rehearsal room, with fellow stars including Bobby Brazier belting out ‘happy birthday’, Adam wrote on Instagram: ‘Who would of thought it… the day our @bbcstrictly journey begins is on my birthday, not just mine but @themeditatingactor too!!
‘Happy birthday big man … never actually told you today, but you’ve been a big inspiration of mine! Happy to share this moment with you 👊x
