Growing up with Rheumatoid Arthritis

I was born with RA. Growing up with a chronic incurable disease was very hard because I knew I wasn’t like the other kids. I took medication until I was around 11 and then stopped it all because nothing was working. My mom was always my biggest supporter and she supported my decision to stop meds. I did really good for the longest time until I was around 25.

My arthritis came back with a vengeance

I couldn’t get out of bed, couldn’t get dressed and sometimes I couldn’t even feed myself. That’s when my now husband pushed me to find a doctor and get back on meds. I’ve been successfully taking Humira for just over 4 years now and it’s been the best decision I’ve ever made. I experience some pain free days now! I still have pain and do still struggle but that’s part of the disease.

I found a treatment that helps me

It took me 27 years to find the right medication. I’m 31 now, all my bloodwork is normal and I’m no longer anemic because of my meds. I’ve never been happier with my health. I hope by sharing my story it helps and encourages others to not give up and keep going. We can do this!

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.

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