Aloe Vera 4 U

I have suffered from the condition Ankylosing Spondylitis since 1981.   This disease is a chronic inflammation of the joints - mostly in the spine. The more common symptoms are pain and reduced mobility.   Over the last three years the pain has been increasing, especially at night.   Turning over in bed used to wake me whenever I wanted to move - momentarily, but sufficiently to distrurb my night's rest.   Prescribed medication helped but did not work as effectively as previously and therefore did not overcome the pain.

I enjoy a busy life but two of my favourite activities involve considerable movement of the joints.   I joined a brass band last year.   However, blowing my instrument causes the chest joints to move more than ordinary breathing does.   This made the pain worse, especially the day after band practice!   In January this year I returned to my gym after a break of eighteen months to recommence a health and fitness programme only to find that, due to pain, there were several exercises I just couldn't do anymore.   There were also others that I had to avoid to prevent intense pain the following few days.

I began to drink Forever Living Products' Aloe Vera Gel on 4th March, 2002.   From 18th April, now drinking Forever Freedom, I increased the amount from 60mls to 120mls daily.   Within a few days and since then, I have been pain free during the day and, more inportantly, the night as well.

I am not a great musician but I can enjoy a good practice or session without any pain at all, either while playing or during the days following.   The level of workout I now do at the gym I would have only dreamed of in January.   I've toned, strengthened, gained stamina and I feel great.   My goal for next season . . . Tennis!

I am so relieved to be pain free at last because long term pain really does wear you down.

Sent in by Ruth Bricknell.