A unique play debuted in Wellington last night, aiming to raise awareness for young people with arthritis.
It's called Orange, for the signature colour of Arthritis New Zealand, and illustrates the resilience of young people with the disorder.
When 24-year-old Rachael Williams woke up six months ago with a sore knee, arthritis didn't even cross her mind.
"Never had an injury that caused a sore knee, but I just thought that maybe I pulled it funny or something like that."
She still doesn't know what type of arthritis she has - there are more than 100 - but says it's taking over more and more of her body.
"The simple fact of moving your legs on your bed could cause agonising pain," she says.
The pain has forced her to stop working, but the former performing arts student was determined to be a part of this play.
"I feel like I'm going to go home and reflect after this week and think, 'Wow, you did it,' and be so proud."
And she's not alone - three other cast members also have arthritis.
"You look at them up there, and every time I see them do something it makes me cry or smile or laugh, because I know that they're telling their truth," says director Geraldine Brophy.
Part of that truth is the misconception that arthritis only affects the elderly.
"When you're young, when you're just starting out a career or in study, then it can have quite a big impact on what happens for your life," says Sandra Kirby, Arthritis NZ chief executive.
"I don't know the whole picture," says Ms Williams. "There are so many types, so many different ways it affects, it's such an individual thing - but to me, it's going to change how I approach the rest of my life completely."
A future that she is determined to stay positive about.
3 News
source: newshub archive
