If I could cure my Rheumatoid Arthritis by doing just about anything, I would. Most people I know with RA, or another inflammatory autoimmune condition, would do the same. Whether someone is newly diagnosed or an “experienced” chronic illness recipient like me, they’ve probably had at least a few moments …
1. Be unprepared. 2. Be opaque. Who needs transparency?3. Leave dissatisfied. Is it proper to say doctor’s appointment or doctor appointment? In my case, this one was the doctor’s appointment for sure. For months I was looking forward to my first appointment with a pain specialist in my area. After …
Today a loved one had to cut ties with a close friend. This friend is not vaccinated but more than that, is resistant to taking any precautions against “the flu” as the friend called it. Among the vile things this so-called friend said today included the belief that the “people …
Spoiler Alert: They’re not. One of the more recent commercials for an RA medication designed to stop joint destruction and curb inflammation features people hiking at dusk, lifting and carrying trees to plant, jumping off a platform about three feet off the ground, zip lining, and riding an ATV on …
Updated 9/25/18 When I wrote this post I was two days away from a much needed Rituxan infusion and in great pain. Since this post, I am constantly reminded how important it is to keep moving. When I sit for too long, stand for too long, or rest too long …
For the last 8 years or so, there has not been a day when I’ve had no pain. I have pain 24/7. My pain level ranges from mild, tolerable to excruciating, crawl-up-into-a-ball pain. Before I reach for pain medication, I try a series of distractions. Work, my cats, my dog, …
It seems counterintuitive to think that when it feels incredibly painful to move that the solution is to get up and move anyway. Thanks to some advice I got years ago, I’m reminded that “motion is lotion”. I’m not sure if she originated the hashtag #motionislotion but I first saw …
I’m excited to participate in RA Blog Week 2017! Our first topic is mental health. I’ll share some ideas on how I manage my mental health while dealing with this autoimmune disease Rheumatoid Arthritis. Well, I’m struggling in this arena. Earlier this week I had an infusion of Rituxan. It’s …
Today I found a slice of the old me. As a child I was a swimmer, a gymnast, a singer, and always on the go. As a young teacher I had endless energy to stay up late to grade papers, write lessons, assemble game centers, and create projects for my …
Undoubtedly the most important decision I will make tomorrow will be to get out of bed and start my routine to get to work. Tomorrow is a Monday and yes, many people have a hard time on a Monday getting back in gear for the work week. Every day is …