Ask Our Health Leaders: Inspirational RA Experiences

The RA community is full of exceptional and inspirational people, all with unique stories and experiences to share. We are lucky to have a team of Health Leaders who know exactly what it’s like to live with RA.

Inspirational RA experiences

We recently asked a few Health Leaders about what it’s been like to be a voice in the rheumatoid arthritis (RA) community and if they have any experiences that stand out the most for them. Here’s what they had to say.

Vulnerability around parenthood

"Experiences community members have shared regarding infertility and early menopause have really stood out to me. I, unfortunately, silently suffered with those issues for many years. This RA community has been so vulnerable in sharing their experiences. Community members have also been very much supportive of each other regarding such very personal topics. It has all truly helped me to heal as I move forward on my journey."

-Lynn Marie Witt, RheumatoidArthritis.net Health Leader

Navigating the healthcare system

“What stood out to me when interacting with community members is just how confusing it is to navigate the healthcare system. It can be discouraging to hear two different diagnoses from two separate doctors or to be at a doctor’s office and have to wait an hour for an appointment. It can be tough coordinating care between different specialists or just getting your doctors to hear you out completely. It can be difficult when a test such as the VECTRA biomarker panel – which is meant to clarify a person’s diagnosis – can lead to even more questions or confusion. It is frustrating to feel that your concerns are not being taken seriously or that there is no good answer to your problems.

“As one patient mentioned to me, 'In this community, we’re not patients – we’re just people.' Very well said! Reading the articles within this community has shown me what others struggle with on a daily basis and what they would like to learn more about when it comes to their health. It has also shown me how I can be a better doctor in my daily practice, by being a better listener and having a deeper level of empathy for the patients I see every day. The other members remind me to see my patients as people, meaning not just someone I diagnose and treat with medication, but seeing the whole picture of their entire lives and how I can help with the mind, body, and spirit in a holistic and individualistic way.”

-Dr. Donica Baker, RheumatoidArthritis.net Healthcare Professional

Secret hidden talents

"Having RA sometimes feels like a secret club, although it's not really the type of club you want to be in necessarily. However, when you are a part of the club, you share certain experiences that help you relate. I always think about how everyone with RA is a legitimate weather predictor. If you need to know if it's going to rain, ask your RA friend. Moreover, if you need to open a water bottle, don't ask your RA friend. Chances are they will be asking you."

-Janeil Whitworth, RheumatoidArthritis.net Health Leader

Share your thoughts!

Have you had any inspiring or touching interactions with fellow RA community members? Share your experiences with us below!