A former top rower for New Zealand, Clementine Marshall, will be attempting the 5-week Camino de Santiago walk in Spain as a fundraiser for Arthritis New Zealand.

Ms Marshall was struck down with arthritis at the age of 23 in the prime of her rowing career. It was at the World champs in Europe, 2005, when she first developed pain in her feet.

During the three months of intense competing that would follow, Marshall lived on anti-inflammatories and pain-killers. By the time she returned home her doctor told her it was imperative to come off the medications. "I went off them and hit rock bottom. I went from being an elite athlete to being a cripple", says Marshall.

She was diagnosed with Reactive arthritis and put on steroids, and told she could not go back to rowing until she was better and off the medication. "It was a very difficult recovery period - emotionally, mentally and physically. My goals to go to the Olympics were forced aside."

Marshall decided to finish her Fine Arts degree and started working for Alexander's Advertising Agency. As she recovered she was able to resume exercising - but nothing like the intensive training that she had previously been capable of. She says, "I still have pain in my feet - especially in the mornings or after long walks and runs. I also occasionally feel other arthritic symptoms in other joints, but overall I like to think that I am pretty fit and healthy. I still have to be very careful as there are a number of factors that can trigger my Reactive Arthritis."

The Camino de Santiago is a 950km walk across the North of Spain. It follows an ancient pilgrimage route west to the magnificent cathedral at Santiago de Compestela. It is said that the bones of St James lie here, entombed in a silver casket. For Clementine, this walk will be a physical and mental challenge.

Reactive Arthritis is caused by an infection in the body. It causes inflammation (redness, swelling and pain)and is most common in young men. It usually affects the knees, ankles and toes.

This is just one form of many. Arthritis has over 140 different types that affect toddlers to the elderly and is the largest cause of disability in New Zealand with over 500,000 people affected.

To find out more about Clementines walk click here. To donate click here.

ENDS

For further information contact:

Ann-Marie Jones

Communications & Research Coordinator

www.arthritis.org.nz

DDI 04 472 5640

Mobile 027 293 3195

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