🌟 Meet David Connell-Smith: A True PA Warrior 🦸♂️ David Connell-Smith, 76 years old, and a dedicated trustee of the PAS, has a story that's both inspiring and eye-opening. His journey with PA began in the '90s when persistent fatigue and anaemia led him on a perplexing medical odyssey. Year after year, David received iron tablets for his anaemia without a clear diagnosis. But in 2002, he was finally told he had PA. Armed with this diagnosis, he sought information and discovered the PA Society's website, which became his primary source of knowledge about the condition. Not content with simply managing his own health, David offered his expertise as Treasurer to the society. Since then, he's been a steadfast trustee, working tirelessly to support the PA community. However, David's journey with PA has been far from easy. Despite receiving regular injections, the fatigue, mental fog, and concentration issues persisted. David's determination led him to explore various treatment options, including self-injecting with cobalamin, which provided some relief. Yet, he faced resistance from healthcare providers who didn't grasp the complexity of PA. David's story highlights the urgent need for greater awareness and understanding of PA within the medical community. Many doctors, like David's previous GP, are bound by outdated guidelines and lack the knowledge to offer comprehensive care. The Pernicious Anaemia Society, with David's unwavering support, is committed to changing this narrative. They're actively involved in research, aiming to address the uncertainties surrounding PA diagnosis and treatment. The upcoming NICE review is a promising step towards improved care for those affected by this condition. David's story is a testament to the resilience of PA warriors and the importance of advocacy. Let's continue to raise awareness, challenge misconceptions, and work towards a brighter future for everyone impacted by PA. To read David's full story, head to our website and type David Connell-Smith in the search bar! #PAS #PerniciousAnaemia #B12deficiency #vitaminB12 #HealthAwareness #LifewithPA #PASociety #PAS12
I have a similar story to David. Diagnosed in 1997 when information was not widely available and a lack of knowledge and understanding within my local GP pratice,I found and joined the PA society and also turned to self injection to manage my condition more effectively than the medical profession, however, not completely mitigating the symptoms. I’ve had a number of GPs and practice nurses over the years with outdated knowledge and conceptions about the condition who are not remotely interested in my condition or assisting me in treating and managing it more effectively.