 In
2006,
a couple of branches
suggested that Arthritis NSW adopt a flower as
an
emblem and it be incorporated into
a badge/brooch that people could purchase.
Initially the suggestion
was for a wildflower and we looked at many but found
other organisations had claimed them!
In a conversation with two rheumatologists
we discovered that
a number of plants are associated with arthritis in some
way. So, we took three of them and
polled branches and support groups - the crocus won!
Colchicine,
the drug that is used to
treat Gout, is extracted from the crocus
family of bulbs. Of family species
Iridaceae, the crocus is one
of the true heralds of spring and a well known and popular
early blooming bulb, preferring a
colder climate such as the Southern
Highlands and the Blue Mountains.
There are in fact over 80
species of crocus, many native to Mediterranean countries.
A great badge
has been developed around
a crocus flower (See the pic above). The cost
is only $4 inc p&p. To purchase your badge
over the telephone using your credit card, call
our freecall number 1800 011 041. If you would
rather pay by cheque, send a cheque for $4 with
a covering note and your details to Arthritis
NSW, Locked Bag 16, Post Office North Parramatta
NSW 2151 Australia.
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