The pain is unbearable at times yes, but I still have people who rely on me. No time for the pain 💯

I hear you, ! It takes a lot of strength to keep going on the RA journey while still handling all your other responsibilities, especially when others are depending on you. I hope you're still finding time to rest when you need to and are able to balance everything so it feels manageable. And if no one has told you already, you’re doing an amazing job! Hang in there 💜 -Latoya (Team Member)

You are definitely not alone in this, ! So many of our community members have very real responsibilities and people counting on them and they often can't stop just because the pain is overwhelming. I hope you do get some time for yourself this week and as we get into the thick of the holiday season.

Gentle Hugs, Erin, Team Member.

Hi . When I read your post I thought of this article from our patient leader David: https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/routine-manage-fatigue. The title is about fatigue, but he offers a lot of thoughts on managing responsibilities with RA. I think of the instructions from flight attendants about putting your own oxygen mask on first - if you don't take care of yourself it won't be long before you can't take care of others. We know that this is often easier said than done, but also a balancing act that is all too real. Best, Richard (Team Member)

Hi Spacey, I have been a caregiver all my life. My father was paralyzed from Iwo Jima and my mother was ill and later brain tumor and dementia. I still am a contact of an elderly aunt that has beat cancer four times. I have a daughter with MS, etc. yet, I finally been able to say no when my body says no go. I find it freeing and it does make my heart lighter and body, too. I use to be so conflicted to say no. Take care and follow your gut feeling. love,elirose