I am a 38 year old female living with rheumatoid arthritis. I was diagnosed with RA when I was 18. Needless to say, I have dealt with many years of pain and frustration of not being able to do all the things I wanted too. Being so young, I didn’t realize at the time how this disease would impact my life. I admit, in the beginning I didn’t take it seriously and didn’t try to do anything to help myself feel better. It wasn’t until I was 22 and ended up in a wheelchair for eight months before having both knees replaced (at the same time) that I decided I had to take action.
It’s been a long journey for me and my family. I’ve tried many different kinds of medications. I’ve started them, stopped them, and started them again. I’ve gained weight, lost weight and went through many periods of depression. I have had one shoulder replaced, which hurts worse than before the replacement. I have joints in my body, and another shoulder, that doctors won’t consider doing surgery on since there is no joint left to work with.
I know what it’s like to need handicap equipment and accessories. I know what it’s like to search for arthritis diets or supplements that work. I know what it’s like to have a loving family and support from others. Without support, it’s hard to manage. But most of all, I know what it’s like living with rheumatoid. If you’re out there and you have this awful disease, then I hope you find some information from my site that might help you along your journey of living with rheumatoid arthritis.
As I struggle with joints that are completely destroyed, I will continue searching and trying different kinds of rheumatoid arthritis relief. I have come to the conclusion that living with rheumatoid arthritis is always going to be a part of my life, and if I can help others deal with this disease by sharing information and research results I have tried or heard about, then I have accomplished a feeling of satisfaction.
This site is presented for information only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice.
