Andy Kelly: Living with Psoriatic Arthritis

In this powerful and deeply human conversation, Debbie andKaty sit down with Andy Kelly - physiotherapist, patient advocate, EULAR representative, and trustee of Inflammatory Arthritis UK to explore what it really means to live with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.Andy shares his journey from first symptoms at university,through years of misdiagnosis, to navigating the emotional and physical realities of a fluctuating autoimmune disease. He opens up about stigma, parenting with a long‑term condition, the impact of flares, and the transformative role of psychological support after an incident at a local swimming pool left him in a bad place. He also reflects on his work in research, patient advocacy, and the growing movement to involve lived experience in shaping future priorities.This episode is full of honesty, humour, and practical wisdom, from navigating treatment pathways to understanding fatigue, exercise, and self‑compassion.Key Topics CoveredAndy’s early symptoms and long road to a psoriasis diagnosisHow psoriatic arthritis developed and why he didn’t recognise the signsThe emotional impact of visible skin disease, including a painful experience at a swimming poolThe role of dermatology–rheumatology joint clinicsHow psychological support helped him accept his diagnosisStarting biologics and navigating treatment optionsLiving with flares: unpredictability, pain, fatigue, and the challenge of “looking fine”Parenting with a long‑term condition and supporting children who develop psoriasisExercise, movement, and the realities of managing energyAndy’s work with BRITPACT, the Psoriasis Association, EULAR, and the James Lind AllianceWhy patient involvement in research is changing the landscapeThe importance and difficulty of self‑compassionStandout moments: “Psychological support was a game changer — accepting what it was, accepting the diagnosis.”“You don’t look ill… but I’m in agony.”“Self‑compassion is the hardest thing. If you don’t slow down, it will make you.”Resources & Links James Lind Alliance https://www.jla.nihr.ac.uk/ Inflammatory Arthritis UK: inflammatoryarthritis.orgFollow us on BlueSky, Instagram, LinkedIn, and FacebookSign up for our newsletter for updates, stories, and community eventsThis episode was funded by UCB, who had no involvement in the development of the content or associated materials.Disclaimer: Debbie and Katy are not medical professionals. They share personal experiences of living with IA to build connection and community. The podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. We talk about our personal health journeys and the podcast is not intended to provide professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not medical professionals and in no way claim to be medically trained. The podcast does not take responsibility for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of the podcast. The podcast does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of third-party content.·       For more information, head to https://inflammatoryarthritis.org/