$500,000 funds raised to assist rheumatic patients

Some HK$500,000 funds raised during a recent fundraising event will sponsor over 800 patients with arthritis and rheumatic diseases to participate in therapy programs, Hong Kong Sanatorium & Hospital (HKSH) announced on Tuesday.

The funds were raised during the 17th annual “Walk for a Vision” event, organized by HKSH Village Volunteers on March 16.

Nearly 300 HKSH staff members and other participants joined the walk, which raised HK$500,000 for the Hong Kong Arthritis & Rheumatism Foundation (HKARF).

The programs, part of HKARF’s “Empower Rheumatic Patients With Every Step!” initiative, include hydrotherapy and physiotherapy,  aiming to alleviate joint pain, improve physical and psychological well-being, and enhance patients’ overall quality of life.

Joseph Chan Woon-tong, HKSH Medical Group's chief medical officer, said the event has raised over HK$8.8 million over the past 16 years to support various communities in need.

“As healthcare professionals, our mission goes beyond saving lives. We are committed to using our medical expertise to give back to society and create meaningful impact,” he said.

HKARF chairman and director of HKSH Rheumatology Centre Gavin Lee Ka-wing said the therapy programs, conducted by registered physiotherapists, will not only strengthen joint and muscle functions but also create a supportive community where patients can connect and gain confidence.

Rheumatic and arthritic diseases encompass over 150 conditions affecting bones, joints, and soft tissues.

In Hong Kong, rheumatoid arthritis affects 0.35 percent of the population, while ankylosing spondylitis affects 0.26 percent, with over 45,000 patients impacted.

A specialist in Rheumatology in the HKSH Rheumatology Tommy Cheung Tsang addressed common misconceptions about rheumatic diseases.

“These conditions often develop in young adults to middle-aged individuals, not just the elderly,” he explained.

“While medication and surgery are primary treatments, physiotherapy and regular exercise are crucial for maintaining health and mobility.”

(Ayra Wang)