Chris's Dead Sea Medical Trip

The Situation

I suffer with chronic Psoriasis, and Psoriatic Arthritis. Psoriasis makes my skin red, scaly and itchy. I often struggle to sleep at night because of this.

I receive regular treatment at hospital (I have been going 3 times a week for the past few months). I have a number of treatments, including skin creams, toxic medicines, steroid creams, coal tar, and sun treatment (phototherapy) where I receive UVB light treatment. I have also been into the hospital as an in patient about 10 times for 2-4 weeks at a time.

I have bad arthritis as well, and am taking injections each week to keep that under control, and take regular pain medication.

The most successful treatment I have received was in Israel, at the Dead Sea. I was there 12 years ago, and the combination of bathing in the minerals and salty water in the Dead Sea, applying the dead Sea mud to my skin, and spending time in the sun's rays was a winner. 

There is something special about the sun's rays at the Dead Sea which is different from anywhere else. The harmful UV rays are filtered out because of the unique atmospheric pressure, so I can spend more time in the sun, and my psoriasis clears up. :)

The last time I went to the Dead Sea I had about 6 months relief from the symptoms of Psoriasis, and my joints improved dramatically as well.

My friends here in West Kilbride want to see me getting better and are trying to raise the money I need for me to go on a medical trip to the Dead Sea once more. They are doing an 18 mile sponsored walk in March, called The Dead Sea Stroll. I was really touched that they are willing to do this for me.

If you are able, would you consider donating to help send me to Israel in April for three weeks? Hopefully I'll come back healthier and stronger!

Travel from Scotland to Israel, including transfers - £650

Hotel & Food & Skin Treatment - £2300

Thanks for reading my page. :)

Chris Barton