Beginning of my RA Journey

By dawnkelly

1 min read

Approximately 13 years ago I woke up one day and couldn't walk...through many specialists and much diagnostic testing it was determined I have RA, PsA and chronic migraine disease. I have battled through many medication challenges, changes and trials. Enbrel and methotrexate worked very well until I had a toxic reaction to methotrexate...my doc took me off both, now on Remicade infusions. Also on prednisone, Celebrex and hydroxychloroquine. The fatigue and brain pause symptoms really affect daily life. Having some knee, neck, toes and ankle soreness/pain. It affects my sleep and mobility...sometimes feels like I am walking on glass...☹. Hanging in there though and staying pretty positive...I WILL NOT BECOME RA

This article represents the opinions, thoughts, and experiences of the author; none of this content has been paid for by any advertiser. The RheumatoidArthritis.net team does not recommend or endorse any products or treatments discussed herein. Learn more about how we maintain editorial integrity here.

Join the conversation

Please read our rules before commenting.

Lauren Tucker Community Admin
Hi DawnKelly, Thanks so much for sharing your story with us. We are sorry to hear you've been diagnoised with RA, PsA and migraines. We are certainly here to support you in any way possible. While the community may offer you some support, I thought I would share some sleep articles and pain articles that are helpful to others in the community. <a href='https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/community-feedback-combatting-ra-pain-and-stiffness' target='_blank'>https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/community-feedback-combatting-ra-pain-and-stiffness/</a> <a href='https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/sleeping-well-wrens-5-ways' target='_blank'>https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/sleeping-well-wrens-5-ways/</a> <a href='https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/sleep-ra-get-good-nights-rest' target='_blank'>https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/sleep-ra-get-good-nights-rest/</a> Addiitonally, if you would like to visit our sister sites <a href='https://www.Psoriatic-Arthritis.com' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>www.Psoriatic-Arthritis.com</a> and <a href='https://www.Migraine.com' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>www.Migraine.com</a> we welcome you to get some community support there too. Keep staying positive and please reach out to us anytime! Best, Lauren (RheumatoidArthritis.net Team Member)
eebtool Member
Keep up the positive attitude! Will be cheering for you!
sallyfarrington Member
It is so scary how quickly RA can hit. i went from fine to not being able to walk up my stairs or drive in a matter of weeks. Thankfully I found a great rheumy on the second try - and I've found what works for me to get active again. Yes - Hang in there and keep a positive attitude. Stress and worry just makes it all worse. You've got this!
1. Lauren Tucker Community Admin
 Thanks for sharing SallyFarrington! We are glad that you found a great Rheumatologist. It's true, havig a good Dr can make all the difference. Glad to hear you are active again too. I thought this article might resonate with you: <a href='https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/am-i-crazy' target='_blank'>https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/am-i-crazy/</a> Reach out to us anytime. Keep up the postivity. Best Wishes, Lauren (RheumatoidArthritis.net Team Member)