RA and all that means

I was diagnosed in 1986 at the age of 37. I knew absolutely nothing about this disease and didn't know anyone with RA. I began my journey into the world of RA and all the issues that come with it. I was very fortunate to have a great Rheumatologist who really helped me to understand what was going on with my body. At the time of my diagnosis, I worked full time, had 2 teenage children and a husband that traveled a lot for his job. There was so much happening for me at the time, I really struggled to find a way to cope. As I started treatment and tried to get this under control, I very quickly found that as soon as things start getting better, my health insurance changed and I found myself dealing with one more problem beyond my control. As the years went by I felt my body was my worst enemy. I have developed many problems and diseases related to RA and/or medicine I was taking. Now I'm into my 30th years of dealing with it and I'm still surprised when a new problem crops up. I know my condition could be much worse and am very fortunate to have the support of my family, friends, the medical staffs and most of all my wonderful, loving, and caring husband. He has been with me though all good, bad and ugly. I'm grateful for this site and enjoy learning from the information.

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