Phil Godfrey: APS Support UK

Our speaker today was Rtn Phil Godfrey from the Rotary Club of Solihull. He spoke to us in his capacity as a volunteer for APS Support UK, a charity that supports those suffering from antiphosplipid syndrome (“APS”). APS is an autoimmune disease which causes the blood to clot too quickly.

APS affects more women than men, in the ratio of 7:2. The majority of patients are aged between 20 and 50. The cause is not yet known although it may have a genetic element. It is thought to be responsible for 15% of all strokes, heart attacks and deep vein thromboses. It is the most important treatable cause of recurrent miscarriage. While a lot of research remains to be done, one possible explanation for the recurrent miscarriages is that thickening of the blood caused by APS stops it getting to the growing embryo.

In a similar way to diabetes, APS cannot be cured but it can be treated. Unfortunately the condition is not well-known and a survey suggests that some 37% of GPs are unaware of it. In its early stages it can be mistaken for multiple sclerosis (“MS”). It takes an average of three years for a sufferer to be diagnosed with APS. APS Support UK is working to increase awareness of APS in the medical community and it is now covered in medical courses.

APS Support UK offers support and information to those affected by APS, both patients and members of their families, and funds research. It is also able to to put patients in touch with APS specialists around the country.

After Phil’s wife died of the condition, he decided to raise funds for APS Support UK by walking from the Scilly Isles to the Shetlands. Owing to problems with his knee, he only got as far as Preston. Instead he is now engaged in a series of railway journeys around the British coast. Having worked as a project manager of the railways for some forty years before his retirement he now has a free rail pass; otherwise his journeys so far would have cost him £15,000! We are the 130th Rotary Club he has visited; he has another 66 booked. You can support Phil by going to his JustGiving page, justgiving.com/Phil-Godfrey-tour.

In the business part of our meeting, President Francis presented a Club name badge to Karen Farrow as the representative of our newest (and first) corporate member, Backhouse Solicitors. (See the photograph.)