I saw Dr Paulina Charlesworth to discuss a weight loss regime. I had recently had a total hip replacement and although I wasn’t in the obese category, ongoing problems with my knees as well as my other hip, suggested that losing some weight would be a good idea. Almost immediately on arrival at her surgery, Dr Paulina asked me whether I had rheumatoid arthritis – I realised she was looking intently at my hands. I told her that I did not have rheumatoid arthritis as I had tested negatively for it by my GP just a week or so earlier. Dr Paulina remained very concerned about the appearance of my hands, even bringing a book over to explain the various signs of severe arthritis that she could see. During our conversation, I told her about my hip replacement and all my other joint problems – I could see she was concerned for my health. Quite honestly, I was surprised at her genuine warmth and concern for my overall health when I had simply come for weight loss advice. Dr Paulina’s concern for my health resulted in her offering to write a letter for me, free of charge, so that I could make an appointment with a Consultant Rheumatologist and have my hands and joints checked properly. I had that appointment with the Rheumatologist last week, who confirmed that I had not Rheumatoid, but severe Osteoarthritis, and more surprisingly that I have a Hypermobility Syndrome! Finding out that I have a Hypermobility Syndrome explains SO MUCH about all the problems I have had over the years as my loose ligaments have caused early onset Osteoarthritis. I can’t believe that it took 62 years to find out what was at the cause of so much pain throughout my life, including skin problems as the hypermobility affects collagen and the skin too. A big THANK YOU to Dr Paulina for taking the time to help me discover what was wrong with me! Really, her care for my overall health was astonishing. Also…I’ve lost 10lbs which is a very good thing too!