Josh's Story

Josh developed psoriasis at 18 following a severe throat infection. In his story, he reflects on the impact it had on his confidence and why he’s taking on eight races in nine months to raise awareness of psoriasis and support Psoriasis UK.

I was 18 when my psoriasis first appeared following a severe throat infection. Almost overnight, what started as small patches spread across large parts of my body. Like many people living with psoriasis, I quickly realised it wasn’t just my skin that was affected – it was my confidence too.

During university, I was fortunate to receive UVB light therapy, which helped to clear my psoriasis for a while. Although the treatment made a huge difference, psoriasis has never truly gone away. Like so many others, I’ve experienced periods where it settles, only to flare up again when I least expect it.

For years, I avoided situations where my skin might be noticed. Swimming pools, beaches and even wearing shorts or short-sleeved tops could leave me feeling self-conscious. I often worried about people staring, making assumptions or wondering if my skin condition was contagious. Looking back, I realise I was never alone in feeling that way – so many people living with psoriasis experience those same emotions every day.

Over time, I’ve become much more accepting of my psoriasis. It doesn’t define who I am and while I still have flare-ups, I no longer want it to stop me doing the things I enjoy.

As I progressed through my teaching career and into school leadership, I began meeting more children and young people who were facing many of the same challenges I had experienced. Seeing children face the same things I had lived through reminded me just how important support and understanding can be. Being able to share my own experiences, reassure them and help them build confidence has been one of the most meaningful parts of my journey.

It was those experiences that inspired me to do something beyond the school gates.

This year, I’ve set myself the challenge of completing eight races in nine months to raise money and awareness for Psoriasis UK. My journey begins with a 5K before progressing through 10Ks, a 10-mile race and hopefully, my first ever half marathon.

Every training run and every finish line represents something much bigger than a race. It’s about raising awareness of a condition that affects millions of people, helping to fund the incredible work of Psoriasis UK and showing anyone living with psoriasis that their condition does not have to define what they’re capable of.

8 races. 9 months. 1 goal.

Raise awareness of psoriasis.

You can donate to Josh's JustGiving page here