A WOMAN diagnosed with crippling arthritis at 19 is to trek through south America to raise money for medical research.
Anna Boekweit, 24, of Great Sutton, will follow the Inca trail in Peru to raise £2,500 for the Arthritis Research Campaign.
Ms Boekweit, who has had rheumatoid arthritis for the past five years, also wants to increase awareness of the fact that young people like her can develop the crippling condition.
She said: 'Having arthritis at a young age is something that people are often shocked by, and part of me taking on the challenge is to raise awareness of the condition and how it affects so many - regardless of age.
'I want to highlight that it is something that changes your everyday life and activities, but should not stop people achieving life goals and aims.'
Ms Boekweit spent months in agony before she was diagnosed at 19. In the early months the disease took away much of her mobility, and she was completely dependent on her family.
'Now I am on regular medication and the condition is under control with occasional flare-ups.
'I never wanted the disease to stop me from doing anything. I have been through university and travelled around the world. If anything it makes me more proud of what I do achieve.'
Ms Boekweit will fly to Peru to join a party of walkers on May 10, and spend four days trekking along one of the world's toughest routes to the lost city of the Incas, Machu Picchu. The 40km (24-mile) trail takes in some tough passes and climbs up to 4,200m (13,779ft) at its highest point.
The volunteer training and development co-ordinator for Liverpool Student Community Action is preparing for the challenge by walking in the countryside and is soon to start some hill climbing in Wales.
As part of her fundraising efforts, Ms Boekweit is holding an Irish-themed charity night at the Hollins Hay hotel in New Brighton on Saturday, March 10.
Anyone who would like more information about the event or how they can sponsor Ms Boekweit can contact her either by e-mail at anna_bookie@yahoo.co.uk, or by calling 0151 794 4170 (daytime). To make a donation go to www.justgiving.com /annaperu2007.
