Kirsty Young, the most loved voice of Desert Islands Discs, is to leave the programme for an undisclosed period of time. Kirsty, 49, has announced she is temporarily leaving because she is suffering from Fibromyalgia. It’s a chronic condition that can cause pain all over the body.
SO WHAT IS FIBROMYALGIA?
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Kirsty Young – Presenter of ‘Desert Islands Discs’
The word Fibromyalgia literally means painful muscles and is a collection of symptoms rather than a specific disease. The most common symptom (although these can vary from individual to individual) is widespread, often intense stabbing or muscular pain. Joints may also feel stiff, especially on waking or after spending even short periods in the same position.
More than a million people in the UK are thought to be affected, and 75 to 90 per cent of sufferers are women. It can affect anyone of any age – even children can develop it.
In a statement the presenter, 49, said she would be stepping away for a ‘number of months’. She added, “Casting away some of the world’s most famous people is a wonderful job. However, I’m having to take some time away as I’m suffering from a form of fibromyalgia.”
FIBYOMYALGIA AWARENESS WEEK IS TAKING PLACE BETWEEN SUNDAY 2ND AND SUNDAY 9TH SEPTEMBER 2018
The Charity aims to highlight that early diagnosis and recognition of fibromyalgia, and timely access to evidence-based treatment and peer support, are essential for the long-term health and well being of those living with fibromyalgia and their families.