Waterloo Road star Adam Thomas has publicly expressed his profound gratitude to his wife, professional dancer Caroline Daly, for her unwavering support during his ongoing battle with rheumatoid arthritis. The actor, who requires regular injections to manage the chronic condition, described Caroline as "the best wife" and "nurse" in a touching social media tribute.
A Public Declaration of Love and Support
In a candid Instagram post shared this morning, the 37-year-old actor posted two images showing Caroline administering an injection to his thigh. Adam, who first gained fame on Emmerdale in 2009, accompanied the photographs with an emotional caption that detailed the depth of their partnership during this challenging health journey.
Eighteen Years of Partnership Through Health Challenges
"Shoutout to my wife Caroline, genuinely the best mother, the best wife, NURSE and somehow still my best friend after 18 years together!" Adam wrote in his heartfelt message. He continued to explain how Caroline has been "everything" during the past month, providing constant support in both significant and subtle ways.
The actor specifically mentioned her assistance with meal preparation, medication management (noting he still cannot inject himself), and their intimate conversations while sitting together in the bath, "trying to solve life like we actually know what we're doing."
The Reality of Rheumatoid Arthritis Management
Adam was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis three years ago after experiencing persistent pain following a knee injury. Last summer, the actor admitted he had "lost hope" due to the debilitating condition, but found relief through inflammatory medication administered via regular injections.
In his Instagram tribute, Adam reflected on their relationship dynamics during this health battle: "We've laughed, we've cried, we've argued (obviously), but I wouldn't change a single bit of it. I adore that after all these years, you're still the person I want to talk to first, laugh with the most, and be completely myself around."
A Journey from Despair to Hope
The actor concluded his message with a declaration of love and a humorous acknowledgment of Caroline's efforts: "I told you this morning, and I'll say it again, I love growing with you! And massive congratulations on winning Family Member of the Month, well deserved. Haha Keep up the good work. I love you @carolinethomas23."
This public tribute follows Adam's previous openness about his condition. In July 2025, he shared a photograph of himself self-administering an injection while discussing how the medication had transformed his life after a period of hopelessness.
Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that causes pain, swelling, and stiffness in joints, affecting people of all ages including children. According to NHS information, it is one of the two most common types of arthritis alongside osteoarthritis. The condition is typically managed through anti-inflammatory medications, which can be administered as tablets or steroid injections.
Adam has been vocal about wanting to raise awareness of the disease, stating in previous posts that he feels it is "not talked about enough." He has emphasized maintaining hope while managing the condition through medication, diet, and recovery efforts.
A Family United Through Health Challenges
Adam and Caroline first met in 2007 when the actor was 19 years old. They married a decade later in 2017 at Delamere Manor in Cheshire and now share two children: son Teddy and daughter Elsie-Rose. Their relationship has evidently strengthened through navigating Adam's health challenges together, with the actor consistently praising his wife's supportive role.
The actor's public acknowledgment of his wife's caregiving highlights the often unseen support systems that help individuals manage chronic health conditions. By sharing their personal journey, Adam continues to bring visibility to rheumatoid arthritis while celebrating the partnership that sustains him through difficult periods.