Theres always a lot of lively discussion Yvonne Harries, 58, from North Wales, is a forum moderator volunteer for Arthritis Care words: ClaIre lavelle being diagnosed with a chronic long-term condition, such as arthritis, is life changing I was in the prime of my life and on course to become a headteacher when I was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis in 2002. One of the first symptoms was pain in my wrist whenIpushed open the big double doors at school. Then I fell in the shower. I went to my GP, expecting a far more benign diagnosis RSI [repetitive strain injury] or carpal tunnel syndrome. But blood tests revealed RA. Other joints became painful and I had to leave my job soonafterwards. at the time, i didnt know anyone else with arthritis I was only in my 40s surely it was an old persons disease? My GP managed to get me on the Expert Patients Programme (EPP), which helps people with conditions such as mine to manage them better. Through this, I was introduced to the Arthritis Care website and was asked if Id consider becoming a moderator. I missed teaching; this filled the career-shaped hole in my life. when im having a bad day, i scan the forums and quickly realise im not the worst off An online community is especially important for people who have restricted mobility. It connects youwith the world when, physically, you cant get out into it. It can be terribly isolating. moderators welcome newcomers tothe forum and then sit quietly in the background Our job is to give everyone a warm welcome and let people connect. Its immewnsely gratifying to watch friendships blossom, particularly between teenagers, or parents of children affected by arthritis people who never expected to be there. Sometimes we have to step in to remind users to respect the rules. If someone is saying something upsetting, well gently nip it in the bud. I used to work with some very challenging children the techniques Iuse now are similar. there are seven moderators and were a close-knit team We each look after the forums one day a week. We meet once a year to chat and compare experiences, and discuss appropriate online behaviour. For instance, when does recommending a helpful product become advertising? To what level should bloggers be allowed to self-promote? Theres always a lot of lively discussion. visit our forum to see what others are talking about go to arthritiscareforum.org. uk. if youd like to become a volunteer, call 020 7380 6500 or email volunteering@ arthritiscare.org.uk children are incredibly perceptive I have four young grandchildren. Getting down on the floor with them is hard, so I have special low tables that allow me to do puzzles and games with them. They know when Im having a bad day and pass me my walking stick, or help take the splints off my hands. They see the world simply: some people use sticks and some people dont. Theres no judgement or stigma. We could learn a lot from them. n Visit our forum to see what others are talking about go to arthritiscareforum.org.uk. If youd like to become a volunteer, call 020 7380 6500 or email volunteering@arthritiscare.org.uk