I have been pondering on the words of all our inspiring speakers at the members event yesterday. Amongst others, we heard from the treasurer ( retail monkey) and Kate Gilbert ( author of that useful book). It became clear that the charity has grown exponentially from the efforts of a handful of dedicated fellow sufferers who started it when there was literally nothing for PMR/GCA sufferers.
It also became clear that in order to carry on the great work that the charity does for all of us, they need more money. If I remember correctly, the Charity has 800 members currently. The forum has approximately 7,000 users. As Kate pointed out. If every user could donate £10.00 that would be an amazing boost to the Charity’s assets, enabling them to do much more to ease the suffering of people with GCA/PMR and raise awareness amongst the medical profession. To initiate projects such as the buddy system and the helpline.
So although there is a lot of love, information, support and company on here. It is not enough.
It gave me food for thought and I will be completing the membership forms and arranging for a donation. All that has prevented it, is a kind of procrastination. Let’s combat the awful ignorance that we encounter on here every day amongst people who have responsibility for our care. 🌦
Love from Jane. X
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SheffieldJane
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Just had a quick scout for membership info/forms but could only see place to donate on home page. Is there a link or can you point me (and others who are technologically challenged) in the right direction?
I got mine from the PMRGCAUK Charity website that is definitely worth a peruse if you haven’t been on before. They send nice hard copies made of real paper. 🙂
When I was first diagnosed, I flailed about looking for info and rang pmrgcauk. They called me back later the same morning and a lovely chap really helped me ,he sent lots of info . I did join then. Thinking on it won’t hurt to donate extra as and when . Worth it for the help for everyone.
The online application form does give the opportunity to apply from abroad, so it might be worth trying that initially. If not then have a look through charity’s site, sure you can contact them by email.
I agree with everything you say and likewise have been procrastinating while I have been grappling with implications and practicalities of this recent diagnosis. Thank you Jane, you have motivated me to complete the on-line form and become a member
Seem to have lost my first reply so a shortened version. Well recalled Jane and agree totally, (was feeling as if I should say something too but no need now). I am a member and donate each year but if more gave (even a £1 donation from everyone) it all adds up. It's raising the awareness that's needed and perhaps the administrators could organise, say six monthly, a reminder to the forum, that's how I've made additional donations following membership.
Well done for posting this, let's hope it gets a good response.
I joined in the first couple of weeks of being diagnosed, as fortunately Dorset Lady mentioned It in a post. I was surprised that we weren't encouraged to become a member.
It stands to reason the site cannot be run without funds, there are those who are giving their time which is invaluable.
And as we were told at the meeting if everyone contributed £10 it would equate to a GP's. salary.
As Terri mentions above a reminder would be a good idea.
I posted a few days ago about using a will writing service for free using a Money Saving Expert code, and making the saved money a charitable donation....sent mine to PMRGCA UK.
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