Football fanatic Dave Smith, 60, from South Woodford is preparing himself to run the 2026 London Marathon in aid of charity Arthritis UK after living with both psoriatic arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis for 10 years.
In 2016, Dave attempted to run one of the world’s most iconic races, the London Marathon, but had a difficult experience, finishing the race unaware that he was running with undiagnosed arthritis.
Months before the marathon Dave was playing in his local football team when he noticed finding the sessions a little tougher than normal, but it wasn’t until six months after when he saw a rheumatologist when he finally got his diagnosis.
“I was really struggling to even move at one point. Getting out of bed was impossible, I couldn’t even walk the 4 metres to my bathroom. I was on the floor, crawling to get to the toilet and I just felt so depressed. I felt like everything had been taken from me, football means everything to me but how was I ever going to play again if I couldn’t even walk to the bathroom” recalled Dave.
Fortunately, Dave’s rheumatologist was running a clinical trial for a biologic drug called secukinumab at the time of his diagnosis and recommended he took part.
Groundbreaking research funded by the UK’s leading arthritis charity, Arthritis UK, led to the development of biologic medication, transforming the treatment of inflammatory arthritis and improved the lives of almost 2 million people, like Dave, worldwide.
Three months on from joining the trial Dave’s life completely transformed and he was back active and playing football once again.
After seeing the impact his new medication had on his condition and quality of life Dave decided he wanted to give back to the charity behind it all.
“I’m very lucky that with the right treatment and support I have been able to keep moving and living well despite having arthritis but so many living with this condition aren’t as fortunate. Many still struggle alone with pain, disability, and lack of support. That’s why I’m running for Arthritis UK, a charity that funds life-changing research, delivers vital support, and campaigns for better care and understanding.
This isn’t just about me. If arthritis hasn’t impacted your life yet, there’s a high chance it will—either you yourself or someone you love” explained Dave.
Dave is now on the final push to the start line of The London Marathon on April 26th, having already raised over £4,900 from the support of his friends, family and colleagues.
Deborah Alsina MBE, Chief Executive of Arthritis UK said:
“There are currently over 10 million people in the UK living with arthritis - that’s one in six living with the pain, fatigue and disability it can cause.
London Marathon is such an exciting event and every year I am in awe of the dedication and commitment from the hours of training and fundraising efforts form everyone involved.
We know the impact of arthritis can be huge, affecting the ability to work, care for family, move free from pain and live independently.
Daves determination through the challenges he has faced over ten years with arthritis is incredibly inspirational.
I am incredibly grateful to Dave for his support to Arthritis UK and I am excited to be cheering you along on the day!”
