STRICTLY Come Dancing star Adam Thomas has been diagnosed with a painful chronic illness that could impact his performance on the show.
Adam, 34, has been told by doctors he has rheumatoid arthritis, which has been causing “a lot of pain” in his limbs and joints.
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Adam Thomas has revealed he has rheumatoid arthritisCredit: INSTAGRAM
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It comes as he was confirmed to take part in Strictly Come DancingCredit: PA
The Waterloo Road star’s admission comes just two days after he was confirmed to be taking part in this year’s Strictly.
But Adam says he is determined to take on the challenge ‘with a smile on his face’.
Adam made the announcement about having rheumatoid arthritis as he prepares to turn 35.
The former Emmerdale actor will celebrate his birthday tomorrow (Friday) and confessed that the past year has been a struggle.
Writing alongside a beautiful photo of himself, his wife Caroline and their two children, he told his Instagram followers: “Well it’s my birthday tomorrow and I turn 35!!
“How did that happen, does this mean I should stop acting like a kid now haha. As much as I act like a kid, my body is telling another story…”
Adam explained: “I’ve been in a lot of pain since January, it started with my knees and then traveled to my wrists, fingers and now ankles and toes.
“I never knew what was happening and finally after several blood tests and back and forth to doctors and hospitals, I’ve been diagnosed with rheumatoid Arthritis!
“I thought that was something people, later on in there life get… but that’s not the case, clearly!”
Adam went on to explain that his diagnosis has affect on both himself and his family.
“It’s been a tough old year but …,” he continued. “Finally I’m on the right plan now! Finally getting it under control. For now!
“But some days are better than others and am not going to lie, it’s been hard not being able to train properly, it’s has had a huge knock on effect for me personally, but not only that for my family too!!
“And I just want to say thank you to @carolinethomas23 and the kids for going on this journey with me, as I know it’s been challenging and frustrating at times but hopefully we’re on the right path now!”
Adam says that he is “still learning” about the chronic illness but signed up to Strictly Come Dancing to help get his body moving again.
“The reason I signed up to Strictly is because I just want to be able to move again, get fit and do it, all with a smile on my face!” he wrote.
“It really couldn’t have come at a better time I’m a firm believer of everything happening for a reason, and I know the journey I’ve been on was meant to happen, to never take small things in life for granted! …Like going for a run, playing with my kids and just being able to walk with no pain!
“I know it’s going to be tough and I’ve definitely got my work cut out but am up for the challenge and can not wait to get on that dance floor!!”
Adam urged anyone he feels as though they are “suffering” to “stay strong and get the right help”.
He concluded: “But most importantly stay positive!”
The NHS describes rheumatoid arthritis as “long-term condition that causes pain, swelling and stiffness in the joints”. It is mainly said to affect the hands, feet and wrists.
The NHS website states: “There may be periods where symptoms become worse, known as flare-ups or flares.
“A flare can be difficult to predict, but with treatment it’s possible to decrease the number of flares and minimise or prevent long-term damage to the joints.”
Adam was announced as a Strictly Come Dancing contestant on Tuesday.
He said: “I am so excited to be joining the cast of this years’ Strictly Come Dancing. I’ve been such a big fan of the show for years, I can’t believe I’m actually doing it!
“I can’t dance to save my life but I’m buzzing to learn and have a good laugh with my pro. Get me on that dance floor…I can’t wait!”
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Source: newstars.edu.vn