Pinky

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   By Erin Rush

   March 1, 2016

   <p>Hi Pinky! Thanks for sharing part of your story with the <a href='http://RheumatoidArthritis.net' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer nofollow'>RheumatoidArthritis.net</a> community. We're glad you're here! I hear you about not liking to take medications. However, if they are improving your quality of life, then they just fall into the category of "things we do 'cause we know we should, not because we want to!" I am also sorry to read that your favorite pastimes are not as easy to manage right now. It is okay and normal to mourn the loss of your old life. It's an important part of the grieving and mental healing process and then you can start building a new life and finding new hobbies, if you choose. This article discusses the very normal emotions you may experience with an RA diagnosis and the changes it brings -- <a href='https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/symptoms/depression-anxiety-and-emotional-problems/.' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer nofollow'>https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/symptoms/depression-anxiety-and-emotional-problems/.</a> I also like this article, because it discusses not only the purpose of grief, but how to move past it -- <a href='https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/grieving-part-living-chronic-disease-like-ra/.' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer nofollow'>https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/grieving-part-living-chronic-disease-like-ra/.</a> Just know you are not alone in this. I am glad to read that you do have two companions on this journey - your furballs! One of our contributors wrote an article about how her cat helps her get through the rough patches with RA and how science has proven that pets can be good for our mental health. You might find it quite relatable! <a href='https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/the-potential-of-purr/' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer nofollow'>https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/the-potential-of-purr/</a> I don't know if you have cats or dogs or other furry critters (all are awesome, in my opinion), but pets can be a great support system, especially on those days when we're just not feeling so hot. But, I bet you already know that! Thank you for sharing with us! I appreciate your honesty and your love for your pets. Please feel free to post here anytime. This is a large, welcoming community and I'm glad you're a part of it. Wishing you a good evening, Erin(RheumatoidArthritis.net Team Member).</p>

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