Cheryl’s story

By cheryl-allred

1 min read

Hello and thank you for accepting me to this group. I am a mom of two amazing adult, happily married kids and Nana to 4 grands, 9 months to 17 years.

I was diagnosed with RA 5 years ago but I believe I had it long before that. I was recovering from the first of two major spine surgery’s when things went in another direction. Since I have been also diagnosed with fibromyalgia and sjogrens to add to my chronic migraines and chronic pain. I’m told those sometimes go hand in hand with RA. As I said I’m a Nana. And a very active one in the lives of our grandchildren. They are Gods blessings to us and what keeps me up and going. I have been married 44 years to an amazing man who took his marriage vows deep in heart way back then as he shows me every day that as he says “ he signed up for it all” I’m an avid crafter and a rather positive person. That so I’d rather look at the positive side of negative things. Above all. I am a child of God.

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Daniel Malito Moderator & Contributor
<inline-mention user-id="3233267" username="cheryl-allred"/> That’s a wonderful story, thank you for sharing. You may not realize how rare it is for somsone to take vows seriously like that, especially now. My wife decided cancer was a bridge too far for her, and left then. It’s more common I’m finding out than you’d think. You found like you have found a routine that suits you, so that’s wonderful. Keep on keepin’ on, DPM
1. cheryl-allred Member
 Thank you Daniel. You are correct. I know some people who just couldn’t deal with the issues a loved one goes through when they are attacked by disease. I think they sometimes feel so helpless because they can’t “fix” the person affected. When faced with the “in sickness and in health “ part of life it’s like being faced with something you never see coming. It’s tough for sure. I hope you have loved ones nearby to support you when needed. By best advice would be to keep busy with something you like doing. I have the littles with me most of the time and like to volunteer at our grandsons elementary school. Little people are so loving. Lots of hugging going on. Have a very blessed new year and the best to you. Btw my son is Daniel James. A very Nobel name.
Richard Faust Community Admin
Hi Cheryl. Thanks for writing and welcome to the community. Hate what brings you here, but glad you have sought out a place where you can get information and support. That positive attitude will take you far. In this article our contributor Nan writes about what a difference attitude can make in managing RA: <a href='https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/attitude-is-everything' target='_blank'>https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/attitude-is-everything/</a>. As the husband of someone with RA (My wife, Kelly Mack, was diagnosed at two and is a contributor here), I'm always pleased to here about a supportive spouse. Kelly interviewed me here about RA from a husband's perspective: <a href='https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/husbands-perspective' target='_blank'>https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/husbands-perspective/</a>. I noticed that you mentioned getting migraines. Don't know if you are aware that we have a sister-site for that where you can get the same kind of information and support for the condition as you find here for RA. It is located at <a href='https://migraine.com/' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>https://migraine.com/</a>. Finally, know that this community is here for you. Wishing you and that family the best for the new year and beyond. Richard (RheumatoidArthritis.net Team)
sliver Member
Hi Cheryl I just joined the group so I could respond to your story. I was diagnosed about 10 years ago but like you I am sure it has been there longer. I also have severe OA and it at times can be difficult to tell the difference. I am also a nana to 8 ages 2-19. I was around to care for the first 5 in their early years but have since moved away from them. My husband of almost 50 years take our vows to death do us die. We care for each other as he has some difficulties also. I like your comment to look on the positive side of things. That is what sees me thru along with God as my anchor. I read this web site and get lots of encouragement here. Thanks for being there.
Monica Y. Sengupta Moderator & Contributor
Hey Cheryl <inline-mention user-id="3233267" username="cheryl-allred"/> ! Thanks so much for sharing your story. Welcome! I was especially taken with your positive outlook. It's hard to stay upbeat sometimes but I am so glad you have such a solid support system. Please know we are also here if you need us. Best, Monica