having R.A. in a 3rd world country

[Guest guest]

NOT easy.

I've been a member here a few years now, and this is post #1. I'm 26, had R.A.

since i was 22. I live in the Philippines and it's especially challenging. the

first years were the most difficult: 1) realizing that my health care insurance

cannot and will not cover my condition. 2) coming into tears when i found out

how much getting decent treatment cost. 3) feeling alone not knowing anybody

here my age with the same condition.

4 years after - i'm mainly on mtx. along the way i've taken cocktails of oral

meds but my rheummy says it's time for Rituximab. she told me about this 8

months ago and i haven't gone back to see her. i know i can't pull that kind of

cash out of my pocket or any of my folks' combined- right now it's me and my

prayers. i'm just thankful that i'm having better days.

to you all - realize how very fortunate you are to be able to access these many

tratments. everything inspires me here- and i feel i'm not alone. keep sharing

your journey!

[Guest guest]

I know just how you feel. I'm from Arkansas I am unemployed, uninsured and can't get help from the state or government and as so said the treatment cost so much but will the help of the Lord I can make my appointment.

From: princesscarladj <princesscarladj@...>Subject: having R.A. in a 3rd world countryRheumatoid Arthritis Date: Friday, May 1, 2009, 2:28 PM

NOT easy.I've been a member here a few years now, and this is post #1. I'm 26, had R.A. since i was 22. I live in the Philippines and it's especially challenging. the first years were the most difficult: 1) realizing that my health care insurance cannot and will not cover my condition. 2) coming into tears when i found out how much getting decent treatment cost. 3) feeling alone not knowing anybody here my age with the same condition.4 years after - i'm mainly on mtx. along the way i've taken cocktails of oral meds but my rheummy says it's time for Rituximab. she told me about this 8 months ago and i haven't gone back to see her. i know i can't pull that kind of cash out of my pocket or any of my folks' combined- right now it's me and my prayers. i'm just thankful that i'm having better days.to you all - realize how very fortunate you are to be able to access these many tratments. everything inspires me here- and i feel i'm

not alone. keep sharing your journey!