Launceston writer wins Arthritis Care’s national competition

Marusia Forshaw, from Launceston, in Cornwall, has won this year’s Arthritis Care Creative Writing competition.

The writer beat entrants from across the UK to win the top prize. Claire Lee, from Shrewsbury, was awarded second place as the runner-up.

Marusia said: ‘I am thrilled to have won Arthritis Care’s Creative Writing competition. I entered because I felt that learning to live with arthritis has been a journey for me. I have come through some difficult times, but feel a positive outlook helps me enjoy my life more.

‘Writing has been a great outlet and look what you can achieve. This competition has given me the inspiration to keep on with my writing. My next step is to try a novel.’

The competition, which is now in its fourth year, is open to all writers who have arthritis. Using this year’s theme A Letter to my Pain, the charity asked entrants to write about their experience of living with arthritis.

Entries were judged by the actress Jane Asher, who is president of Arthritis Care, and writers Alice Peterson and Dave Smalley.

Jane Asher said: 'This year we had a wonderfully high standard of entries: clearly the idea of writing directly to one's pain was very inspiring. We were touched and enthused by the quality, variety and sheer inventiveness of the texts. It's heartening to find such courage and bloody-mindedness amongst our members, and it makes us even more determined to continue Arthritis Care's magnificent work in improving the lives of all those affected by this serious and disabling condition.'

Author Alice Peterson, who was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis at the age 18, said: ‘Marusia’s piece was absolutely beautiful – it moved me to tears. What I loved about this piece was the positive ending. I was also moved by the imagery of her husband’s support, and the love she received from her children.’

Dave Smalley, who also has arthritis, said: ‘What I liked about the piece of writing by Claire Lee was the ability to create a story in so few words. The story tells of the role that her arthritis played in helping find the love of her life. It also tells that if someone loves you for who you are and sees beyond your arthritis, then any happiness is possible.’

Arthritis is often called a ‘hidden disease’ because it is difficult for others to see and understand the pain that it causes. It affects around 10 million people in the UK and is the most common cause of chronic pain.

Anyone with questions about arthritis can call the Arthritis Care Helpline free on 0808 800 4050 or email Helplines@arthritiscare.org.uk.