James’ story

James Aston, 44, lives with his family in Lichfield and was diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis and osteoporosis at just 31 years old. James explains: “Osteoporosis is thought of as an old person’s illness, but it can also affect younger people and have dramatic effects on their health. I think this should be more well known.”

James’ journey
It began when James started getting foot pain at 28 years old. He says: “Eventually, I went to the minor injuries ward in my local hospital and the nurse x-rayed my foot. Despite there being no trauma, they found a fracture in my metatarsal, and they also found old fractures too.”

Following a diagnosis and multiple surgeries, James had to retire as a police officer due to fractures caused by osteoporosis. Our new report found that over a quarter of those whose working lives have been affected by osteoporosis have had to give up work, while almost one in five have had to take early retirement.

Losing height

James has also experienced changes in his body due to osteoporosis. He explains: “To date, I have suffered from over 20 bone fractures or injuries associated with the poor quality of my skeletal system, as well as multiple surgeries. The physical impact of this on my body is that I have shrunk 6.5 inches in height.”

Like James, almost three in five people with osteoporosis have been impacted physically by osteoporosis and two in five are currently physically impacted. 55% of those who have fractured as a result of osteoporosis say they have height loss or a change in their body shape, which they link to their osteoporosis.

Raising awareness
In the face of the challenges James experiences in his day-to-day life, James and a group of riders from the Wade Street Wheelers cycling club rode 200 miles to raise much-needed funds for the ROS in July. To date, James and the Wade Street Wheelers have raised an incredible £4,850!

Despite the impact of osteoporosis, only 25% of adults are familiar with the term osteoporosis. James says: “I think it’s important that there is greater awareness of osteoporosis as it can cause life-changing problems. I think more needs to be done to deal with the causes of osteoporosis and minimising the effects.”

If you are interested in supporting the ROS, find out more about taking on your own challenge or why not hold a Big Bones Quiz or Sweepstake?

Do you have a story you’d like to share? We’d love to hear from you. Tell us about your life with osteoporosis and encourage friends, family and colleagues to use our bone health checklist on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. #WOD21 #1EveryMinute