The Raynaud’s & Scleroderma Association (RSA) is well on its way to achieving a target of raising £1 million towards research into the two related conditions.

The charity, based at Alsager in Cheshire, has just reached the £250,000 milestone towards its ‘Cool Million Appeal' which is running up until the end of 2012 when the RSA celebrates its 30th Anniversary.

Raynaud’s, a condition that affects an estimated 20% of the UK population including nine million women, leads to extremely painful cold hands and feet. In a small number of people this can be associated with scleroderma, a disease which affects the connective tissue, immune system and can damage the internal organs and their blood supply.

Founder, Chief Executive and tireless fundraiser Anne Mawdsley MBE is delighted with the progress made by the appeal: “We are well on track to reaching the cool million and that represents a big step forward in helping to fund research into both Raynaud’s and scleroderma. Everyone at the RSA would like to thank all of those who have contributed in whatever way to this landmark.

“We still have a long way to go in what are difficult times but have a number of innovative fundraising events in the pipeline thanks to our strong and growing membership,” added Anne.

For more information visit www.raynauds.org.uk or contact the RSA on 01270 872776.