New to this world

My name is Teresa and I am 45-years old. Three years ago, I was walking 3-5 miles per day and ran a marathon. Today, all I can do is walk two miles since I have been newly diagnosed with RA and low active thyroid.

I have gained 20 pounds and can't seem to get it off. I work using my hands 12 hours a day and sometimes my pinky and ring finger on my right hand hurt so bad I want to cry. I am still trying to find a medication that works for me, and have switched from pilates to a yoga class that works intrinsic muscles. The class is supposed to be for the "older" crowd or people who are recovering from injuries. Makes me feel really old LOL! Thank goodness my sister teaches the class so her smiles make me feel better.

When I was diagnosed, I looked up and tried the gluten free diet,tried different exercises, different positions to sleep,medications, and am feeling quite depressed for the moment. I am going next week to have blood levels checked again and hoping for some other type of relief. I remember my grandmother's hands and how curled up and crippled they were and that's my biggest fear for the moment. I try reading everything I can to try to educate myself. Reading other stories helps a lot and I will continue to do yoga and walk my dog every day....

Thanks for having a positive, cheerful impact on my world...it's new to me, and learning to deal, but I will persevere with a smile and positive attitude...you are not to lead to something without a means to move through it!