Posts

Navigating Rheumatoid Arthritis: My Journey with Medications

-
Living with a severe form of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) for over 30 years has meant trying numerous medications as they became available. My journey began with prednisone, followed by a series of medication combinations. Each new treatment brought hope, but often, after the frustrating wait of 6-8 weeks, the medications proved ineffective. Every doctor’s appointment involved blood work and a thorough assessment of my joints for inflammation, swelling, redness, stiffness, and pain. Despite the challenges, I remained hopeful with each new medication, believing it might finally slow down or stop the relentless symptoms. This trial-and-error process lasted for about five to six years until 1999, but unfortunately, the results were not as I had hoped. Thankfully, I never succumbed to depression during this challenging time, thanks to the unwavering support from my family and the arthritis community around me. Their encouragement kept my spirits high, reminding me that I wasn’t alone in this ...
Post a Comment
Read more

Resilience Through the Storm: My Journey with Severe Rheumatoid Arthritis

-
 My Journey with Rheumatoid Arthritis: Finding Strength Through Uncertainty A Life-Changing Diagnosis Thirty years ago, I sat in my rheumatologist's office for the first time, and her words still echo in my mind: "Your RA is very severe, affecting all your joints, from your jaw to your toes." It was a moment that catapulted me into an unfamiliar world, where my hands were stiff, swollen, and sore, and my feet had already begun to show signs of changes, with claw and hammer toes. Even walking became a challenge, but the reality of my situation went beyond the physical pain. The Impact on Family and Future Plans At that time, my husband and I were planning for the future, hoping to have another child—a girl, perhaps. However, my rheumatologist cautioned me that the medications I would need to take could make pregnancy impossible. The rapid changes in my health forced us to shift our focus. We had to come to terms with the unpredictable nature of living with a chronic diseas...
2 comments
Read more

Thriving at Work with Arthritis: Essential Strategies for Success

-
  Managing Arthritis in the Workplace: Strategies for Success Arthritis, a condition that affects the joints, can pose significant challenges in the workplace. Whether you’re dealing with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or another form of the disease, managing arthritis while maintaining a productive and fulfilling work life requires a blend of practical strategies and supportive adjustments. In this blog post, we'll explore various ways to navigate the workplace effectively while dealing with arthritis, offering practical advice and tips to help you thrive. Understanding Arthritis in the Workplace Arthritis is an umbrella term for various inflammatory joint conditions that cause pain, swelling, and stiffness. It can significantly impact your ability to perform daily tasks, including those required in the workplace. The symptoms can range from mild to severe and might fluctuate over time. As such, finding ways to manage your workload and workspace effectively is crucial. Type...
Post a Comment
Read more

Traveling Smart: 20 Years of Advocacy and Managing Arthritis on the Go

-
  Navigating the Challenges of Traveling with Arthritis: Lessons from 20 Years of Advocacy For two decades, I dedicated my time and energy to working with various arthritis organizations, striving to improve the lives of those living with this chronic condition. My journey was not just about attending meetings and conferences; it was a meticulous process of preparation and adaptation, shaped by my experiences living with arthritis. As I reflect on my extensive involvement, I realize that every trip—whether it was a long drive or a flight—required careful planning to ensure I could contribute effectively and maintain my well-being. This blog delves into the challenges and strategies I developed over the years, offering insights that may be useful to others in similar situations. The Importance of Preparation Every successful trip began long before I boarded a plane or hit the road. Preparation was the key to managing both the physical demands of travel and the mental requirements of...
Post a Comment
Read more

Understanding the Mental Health Challenges of People with Arthritis

-
Arthritis is a term that refers to a range of conditions affecting the joints, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling. It’s a chronic condition, meaning it lasts a long time, and it can significantly impact a person's life. While arthritis is often discussed in terms of physical symptoms, it also has a considerable effect on mental health. This article explores the mental health challenges faced by people with arthritis in everyday language, helping to understand how this condition can affect emotional well-being and what can be done to help. 1. How Arthritis Affects Mental Health Arthritis doesn’t just cause physical pain; it can also lead to emotional and mental health struggles. Here’s how: 1.1 Chronic Pain and Its Emotional Toll Pain is one of the most persistent symptoms of arthritis. When someone experiences pain day after day, it can lead to significant emotional distress. Depression : Living with constant pain can make it hard to enjoy activities that used to bring joy. This...
Post a Comment
Read more

Finding Support and Understanding: My Journey with RA

-
Navigating Rheumatoid Arthritis: My Journey to Finding Support and Strength When I was first diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), the world seemed to spin off its axis. The sheer volume of medical jargon, the deluge of information, and the uncertainty of what lay ahead felt like a whirlwind I couldn’t escape. The future, once so predictable, now appeared clouded with questions and fear. I grappled with the reality of my condition, unsure of how to move forward or where to seek reliable guidance. It was at this juncture that I decided to reach out to the Arthritis Society, a choice that would significantly shape my journey toward managing RA. A Lifeline Amidst the Chaos The initial call to the Arthritis Society was a beacon of hope in the midst of confusion. I remember articulating my fragmented understanding of RA, barely scratching the surface of the vast sea of information I had been bombarded with. The response from the Arthritis Society was both empathetic and enlightening. Th...
Post a Comment
Read more

Mobility Aids: Walking and Rolling With Purpose

-
Living with arthritis for over 32 years has taught me the importance of finding the right mobility aids to maintain independence and comfort. My journey has included a variety of aids and adaptations, each playing a crucial role in managing the challenges that come with joint pain, swelling, and stiffness. Supportive Footwear: A Foundation for Comfort From the beginning, supportive shoes have been a must. My physical therapist recommended Birkenstocks for their excellent support, especially in the spring and summer. For over 30 years, these shoes have been my go-to. Their arch support and cushioning have made a significant difference in reducing foot pain and providing stability. If you're in search of the right footwear, consider shoes that offer ample support, cushioning, and adjustability to accommodate changes in your feet. The Versatility of Wheelchairs There have been times when walking became nearly impossible due to the intensity of pain and swelling in my joints. During th...
Post a Comment
Read more