Publish date: 10 November 2025
Movember – How John Butters live with and manages his rheumatoid arthritis
As part of Men’s Health Month we’ve sat with John Butters, analytics and visualisation specialist, to talk about men’s health and how he has managed living with a chronic condition.
Health struggles I’ve faced and how I have overcome them
I have been living with rheumatoid arthritis since 2013 and have been managing this condition since.
It has been difficult at times especially during flare ups and coming to terms with having to take medication indefinitely.
I must tell myself not to overdo things which is hard. It is possible to have a very active lifestyle when dealing with this autoimmune disease and I have achieved lots of personal goals with this condition.
I have struggled with my mental health in the past which encouraged me to do the Mental Health first aid at work course so I can support my colleagues.
How I take care of my health and wellbeing and the impact it has
I am very active, and I run and compete regularly. My happy place is running on the trails and fells in the mountains. This brings me a lot of joy and freedom. There’s nothing quite like it.
I cycle and do strength and conditioning to support my activities. I’m a personal trainer and teach Pilates outside of work. I enjoy helping and encouraging others in their own health and wellbeing journey.
Why I’m speaking out and advice to take away
I would like to inspire others so that they can see what is possible even with a chronic condition. It has not held me back, but it has in fact made me more motivated to keep moving and stay healthy.
Men’s Health Month is a time to reflect, reset and take action.
Talk openly about stress or anxiety. Silence isn’t strength. Reach out and connect. Built healthy habits. Avoid harmful behaviours. Prioritise sleep and downtime from work. Leave work at work! Build a support network by surrounding yourself with people who uplift you and challenge you. Do what you love!
As part of Men’s Health Month, John has also shared his story as part of a new photography exhibition which we have opened in partnership with Bright Northumbria Healthcare Charity, focussing on different aspects of men’s health.
This exhibition highlights some of our male staff members discussing personal health issues and how they take care of their health and wellbeing.
The new exhibition will be open and available to visit from Friday 21 November 2025, along the corridor down to the Health and Wellbeing Centre at The Northumbria hospital (NSECH).