Adam Thomas says medical diagnosis is reason he signed up for Strictly
"The reason I signed up to strictly is because I just want to be able to move again, get fit and do it, all with a smile on my face!"
After being announced as one of the contestants joining this year's season of Strictly Come Dancing, actor Adam Thomas has revealed that he joined the show after being diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis.
In a post on Instagram, Thomas said: "I’ve been in a lot of pain since January, it started with my knees and then traveled to my wrists, fingers and now ankles and toes. I never knew what was happening and finally after several blood tests and back and forth to doctors and hospitals, I’ve been diagnosed with rheumatoid Arthritis!"
Thomas added that he is "finally getting it under control" but that "some days are better than others" and "it's been heard not being able to train properly".
He went on to explain: "The reason I signed up to strictly is because I just want to be able to move again, get fit and do it, all with a smile on my face! It really couldn’t have come at a better time I’m a firm believer of everything happening for a reason, and I know the journey I’ve been on was meant to happen, to never take small things in life for granted!"
Thomas continued: "I know it’s going to be tough and I’ve definitely got my work cut out but am up for the challenge and can not wait to get on that dance floor!! I suppose the reason am telling you this is if anyone out there, is suffering what ever your situation… stay strong get the right help where and when you can! But most importantly stay positive!"
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In the post, he also said thank you to his wife Caroline and his children, saying that he knows "it’s been challenging and frustrating at times" and that he'd be lost without them.
Thomas is best-known for his roles in Emmerdale, as Adam Barton, and Waterloo Road where he plays Donte Charles. He also appeared on I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! in 2016.
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He joins a line-up for this year's season of Strictly which also includes the likes of Amanda Abbington, Zara McDermott, Krishnan Guru-Murthy and Angela Rippon.
Strictly Come Dancing will return to BBC One and BBC iPlayer this autumn. Check out more of our Entertainment coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on.
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Authors
James Hibbs is a Drama Writer for Radio Times, covering programmes across both streaming platforms and linear channels. He previously worked in PR, first for a B2B agency and subsequently for international TV production company Fremantle. He possesses a BA in English and Theatre Studies and an NCTJ Level 5 Diploma in Journalism.
