Adam Thomas: A Candid Update on His Health Battle with Arthritis
Adam Thomas, the beloved star of Emmerdale and a recent contestant on Strictly Come Dancing, has bravely opened up about his ongoing battle with rheumatoid arthritis. His journey, marked by pain and resilience, has resonated with many, and he has taken to social media to share his experiences and updates with fans.
The Diagnosis: A Shocking Revelation
Just weeks before embarking on his Strictly journey with partner Luba Mushtuk, Thomas revealed that he had been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. In a heartfelt post on social media, he described the onset of his symptoms, which began with pain in his knees and gradually spread to his wrists, fingers, ankles, and toes. “I never knew what was happening,” he wrote, detailing the frustrating process of multiple blood tests and doctor visits before receiving his diagnosis. The 36-year-old expressed his surprise at being diagnosed with a condition often associated with older individuals, highlighting the unpredictability of health issues.
Competing Through the Pain
Despite the challenges posed by his condition, Thomas did not let arthritis deter him from competing on Strictly Come Dancing. He showcased remarkable determination, making it all the way to week seven of the competition. However, the physical toll of dancing while managing chronic pain was significant. Thomas later admitted that while he was able to push through during the show, the pain was often unbearable, and he was merely putting on a brave face.
Medication and Its Side Effects
Recently, Thomas shared a candid update about his treatment journey, revealing that he had decided to stop his current medication, methotrexate, due to its severe side effects. In a series of emotional posts on Instagram, he documented his struggles, including a video where he expressed his pain during an injection, asking, “There must be another way.” He explained that after being on methotrexate for some time, the side effects became too much to bear, leading him to seek alternative treatments.
The Ongoing Struggle
In his latest updates, Thomas has been transparent about the increased pain he has experienced since stopping his medication. He described the difficulty of walking, especially in the mornings, and the worsening condition of his wrists and fingers. “I’ve been taking a lot of painkillers to get me through,” he shared, emphasizing the toll that chronic pain takes on his daily life. Despite the challenges, he remains hopeful and is exploring new treatment options, including sulfasalazine tablets, as part of a long process to find relief.
A Message of Strength and Resilience
Throughout his journey, Thomas has emphasized the importance of staying positive and resilient. He acknowledged the emotional and physical toll of living with chronic pain, stating, “The thing is I’ve never been pain-free!! Over two years I’ve been in pain EVERYDAY.” Yet, he also highlighted the moments of relief he experienced during his time on Strictly, where the excitement of dancing temporarily eased his discomfort.
In his posts, Thomas has expressed a desire to connect with others who are facing similar struggles, encouraging them to stay strong and not give in to their pain. His openness about his condition has fostered a supportive community, with fans and friends flooding his comment section with messages of encouragement and solidarity.
Conclusion: A Journey of Hope
Adam Thomas’s journey with rheumatoid arthritis is a testament to his strength and resilience in the face of adversity. By sharing his experiences, he not only raises awareness about the challenges of living with chronic pain but also inspires others to remain hopeful and proactive in their health journeys. As he continues to navigate the complexities of his condition, Thomas serves as a reminder that while the road may be tough, there is always a reason to keep fighting.