Re: Younger people with ra

[Guest guest]

erin,

kudos to you hon!!  You must have been very brave getting dx so young.  I just

celebrated my 37th birthday  and was diagnosed 4 mths ago.  I can't imagine what

you have and are going thru. I hope the best for you and just keep your chin

up.  You can do it!!  Where in Florida do u live?  Lived there and have family

there.  Paris

[ ] Younger people with ra

Hi everyone..

I just wanted to see how many of you are younger with RA?  I am 27 and was dx 11

yrs ago, just at the age of 16.  I've had a lot of depression issues with

dealing with this at a younger age.  I know some like melynda got is at much

younger ages. So I feel guilty even saying all this.  I never mention how I feel

like I was robbed of my " fun years " as I don't want to feel like I'm throwing a

pity party  to my friends and family. I don't like to show my emotions, although

it happens from time to time.  I also found out recently I have pcos..polycyctic

ovarian syndrome..which means slim chances for kids.  I don't have any, but

dearly love my 3 and 1 yr old nieces.  I have had a few failed relationships bc

they couldn't handle me being sick.  And the dr wonders why I have depression? 

And I have severe limitations in my knee and both elbows.  So I am so self

concious and get panic attacks when I go anywhere new.  Sorry about venting.  I

just

wondered how others deal.  I don't post very often..I get nervous..sounds

funny..I know.  I'm kinda a nut case.  Oh well.  Gotta laugh about it..when u

can.

Thanks for listening

Central FL

------------------------------------

[Guest guest]

Hi :

I was 29 when I was diagnosed with AS, RA's close cousin. I'm now 32. I began

to show symtpoms around age 11 or 12.

--

Dodge

Resolve to be tender with the young, compassionate with the aged, sympathetic

with the striving, and tolerant of the weak and wrong, because sometime

in your life you will have been all of these.

Read my blog at:

http://jumpthis.wordpress.com

---- bella_1180 <bella1180@...> wrote:

=============

Hi everyone..

I just wanted to see how many of you are younger with RA? I am 27 and was dx 11

yrs ago, just at the age of 16. I've had a lot of depression issues with

dealing with this at a younger age. I know some like melynda got is at much

younger ages. So I feel guilty even saying all this. I never mention how I feel

like I was robbed of my " fun years " as I don't want to feel like I'm throwing a

pity party to my friends and family. I don't like to show my emotions, although

it happens from time to time. I also found out recently I have pcos..polycyctic

ovarian syndrome..which means slim chances for kids. I don't have any, but

dearly love my 3 and 1 yr old nieces. I have had a few failed relationships bc

they couldn't handle me being sick. And the dr wonders why I have depression?

And I have severe limitations in my knee and both elbows. So I am so self

concious and get panic attacks when I go anywhere new. Sorry about venting. I

just wondered how others deal. I don't post very often..I get nervous..sounds

funny..I know. I'm kinda a nut case. Oh well. Gotta laugh about it..when u

can.

Thanks for listening

Central FL

[Guest guest]

ERIN LIKE I'VE SAID BEFORE EVERYBODY IS DIFFERENT BUT ALIKE IN SOME WAYS.. WHEN

I LOOK BACK I DON'T REGRET ANYTHING MY MOM DID FOR ME TO MAKE ME BETTER TILL THE

DAY SHE DIED, I WAS 14 THEN. IT WAS THE MOST SCARRIEST DAY OF MY LIFE CUZ MY MOM

ALWAYS TOOK ME HERE & THERE TO FIND SOME KIND OF REMEDY OR CURE FOR ME. DO U

MIND ME ASKING WHAT LIMITATIONS DO U HAVE IN YOUR KNEES & BOTH

ELBOWS????????????? ERIN NO ONE IS PERFECT BY FAR & WE ALL HAVE LIMITATIONS IN

ONE WAY OR ANOTHER..

IS IT REALY THAT BAD ERIN THAT U FEEL SELF CAUCIOUS? U WANT TO HEAR SOMETHING?

RIGHT NOW I'M HAVING MY FAMILY FEED & DRESS ME CUZ I BROKE MY ARM,FRACTURED MY

WRIST & DISLOCATED MY ELBOW. MY OTHER HAND IS FUSED DUE TO MY SEVERE RA. I DEAL

THOUGH CUZ U NO WHAT MY FAMILY LOVES ME & I LET THEM HELP. GOD BLESS U SWEETIE,

I HOPE U CAN COME OUT OF THE SHELL I THINK U R IN......GOD BLESS,MELYNDAGAMEZ

8/29/08 10:44P.M.CT     VENT ANYTIME!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Re: [ ] Younger people with ra

Hi :

I was 29 when I was diagnosed with AS, RA's close cousin.  I'm now 32.  I began

to show symtpoms around age 11 or 12.

--

Dodge

Resolve to be tender with the young, compassionate with the aged, sympathetic

with the striving, and tolerant of the weak and wrong, because sometime

in your life you will have been all of these.

Read my blog at:

http://jumpthis.wordpress.com

---- bella_1180 <bella1180@...> wrote:

=============

Hi everyone..

I just wanted to see how many of you are younger with RA?  I am 27 and was dx 11

yrs ago, just at the age of 16.  I've had a lot of depression issues with

dealing with this at a younger age.  I know some like melynda got is at much

younger ages. So I feel guilty even saying all this.  I never mention how I feel

like I was robbed of my " fun years " as I don't want to feel like I'm throwing a

pity party  to my friends and family. I don't like to show my emotions, although

it happens from time to time.  I also found out recently I have pcos..polycyctic

ovarian syndrome..which means slim chances for kids.  I don't have any, but

dearly love my 3 and 1 yr old nieces.  I have had a few failed relationships bc

they couldn't handle me being sick.  And the dr wonders why I have depression? 

And I have severe limitations in my knee and both elbows.  So I am so self

concious and get panic attacks when I go anywhere new.  Sorry about venting.  I

just

wondered how others deal.  I don't post very often..I get nervous..sounds

funny..I know.  I'm kinda a nut case.  Oh well.  Gotta laugh about it..when u

can.

Thanks for listening

Central FL

------------------------------------

[Guest guest]

Paris..

Thanks for the support. I'm glad you seeked a support group so early on. I had

a hard time accepting this disease. I tried to hide from it. And the drs were

very stumped. No known family history and because I was so young. My mom took

me to a nutrionist and took an hr long survey. She thought my break up with my

first serious bf triggered the ra. I remeber when it happened. I was siiting

at a football game agains my high school's arch rival goofing off being a normal

teenager. My mom and sister were a few bleachers up. And I got excrutiating

pain in my hips. The metal bleachers killed. But I stuck it out. I came home

and could barley walk to the bathroom the next room over. My mom was convinced

I hurt myself or someone hurt me and I wasn't telling her. I couldn't walk from

that friday thru the following tuesday. I could feel it travel through my body.

My hand swelled up so bad, I was convinced I got bit by a poisenous spider. We

have many down here. Anyhow, my uncle is a pa and told my mom to get me to a dr

asap. They ran so many tests. Just before doing a spinal tap, my tests came

back positive for ra. I had no clue what it meant. I instantly thought to my

geart grandparents that had deformities in their hands. But that wasn't ra

related. I then went to a specialist at nemours children hospital who confirmed

my dx as juvinile ra. He said I'd probably be in a wheel chair in a few yrs

since my knee already had limitation and my ellbows..I was devasted, but have

pushed on to make that not happen. Not yet. The only time I do use a

wheelchair is when I go to theme parks. And then of coarse I get looks for

everyone. It broke my heart to have complete strangers judging me like this.

They have NO clue..none at the devastion that comes with this. Especially being

the only " sick one " in my group of friends and family. My work has been

somewhat supportive. But being on fmla, I guess legally they have to. I'm a

very sensitive person and people's comments tend to upset me so bad it just

causes more flares. I know I shouldn't care but its hard..

Ok..I rambled a lot..sorry.

Anyhow, my suggestion is be aggressive with treatment. If something isn't

working for u, be strong and demand a diferent drug. They aren't the ones

having to go through the pain and side effects. I have to remember that all the

time.

I live in between orlando and daytona. In a city called deltona. I grew up in

dayotna beach, moved away to madison wi for a short time. Couldn't handle the

weather at all. Where are u at?

>

> erin,

> kudos to you hon!! You must have been very brave getting dx so young. I just

celebrated my 37th birthday and was diagnosed 4 mths ago. I can't imagine what

you have and are going thru. I hope the best for you and just keep your chin up.

You can do it!! Where in Florida do u live? Lived there and have family there.

Paris

>

>

>

> [ ] Younger people with ra

>

> Hi everyone..

>

> I just wanted to see how many of you are younger with RA? I am 27 and was dx

11 yrs ago, just at the age of 16. I've had a lot of depression issues with

dealing with this at a younger age. I know some like melynda got is at much

younger ages. So I feel guilty even saying all this. I never mention how I feel

like I was robbed of my " fun years " as I don't want to feel like I'm throwing a

pity party to my friends and family. I don't like to show my emotions, although

it happens from time to time. I also found out recently I have pcos..polycyctic

ovarian syndrome..which means slim chances for kids. I don't have any, but

dearly love my 3 and 1 yr old nieces. I have had a few failed relationships bc

they couldn't handle me being sick. And the dr wonders why I have depression?

And I have severe limitations in my knee and both elbows. So I am so self

concious and get panic attacks when I go anywhere new. Sorry about venting. I

just

> wondered how others deal. I don't post very often..I get nervous..sounds

funny..I know. I'm kinda a nut case. Oh well. Gotta laugh about it..when u

can.

>

> Thanks for listening

>

> Central FL

>

>

> ------------------------------------

>

>

[Guest guest]

my name is Jennie i have Juvenile rheumatoid arthrits since i was 10 and i have 

alot of other chronic diseases as well as depression..i am 27 now i will be 28 

in feb. i have 2 kids one who i took in when i got with my husband adopted him

as my own son because his mom was abusive and violent with him.. and i have my

daughter  desi who will be 4 in Dec. You can email me anytime and chat

online...  its hard to be young and sick with RA people think just because we

are young we can handle being sick  more than the older people but to me its all

the same just because we are young doesnt mean anything... you know?  i get told

all the time " oh you are lucky because you are young "   lucky my butt..  lol 

anyways its nice to know there are alot of us out there...  bye for now and just

remember  we are all here for eachother!    bye bye

From: bella_1180 <bella1180@...>

Subject: [ ] Younger people with ra

Date: Friday, August 29, 2008, 9:38 PM

Hi everyone..

I just wanted to see how many of you are younger with RA? I am 27 and was dx 11

yrs ago, just at the age of 16. I've had a lot of depression issues with dealing

with this at a younger age. I know some like melynda got is at much younger

ages. So I feel guilty even saying all this. I never mention how I feel like I

was robbed of my " fun years " as I don't want to feel like I'm throwing a pity

party to my friends and family. I don't like to show my emotions, although it

happens from time to time. I also found out recently I have pcos..polycyctic

ovarian syndrome..which means slim chances for kids. I don't have any, but

dearly love my 3 and 1 yr old nieces. I have had a few failed relationships bc

they couldn't handle me being sick. And the dr wonders why I have depression?

And I have severe limitations in my knee and both elbows. So I am so self

concious and get panic attacks when I go anywhere new. Sorry about venting. I

just wondered how others deal. I

don't post very often..I get nervous..sounds funny..I know. I'm kinda a nut

case. Oh well. Gotta laugh about it..when u can.

Thanks for listening

Central FL

[Guest guest]

,

I wasn't as young as you when I was diagnosed (age 24). It's hard

when you can't keep up w/ your friends. It has been hard for me to

deal w/ it and I still struggle with it. I too have PCOS and

endometriosis, plus other health issues which will make it almost

impossible for me to have a child of my own (less then 2%). It

hurts, because I know my husband wants a child of his own. It tears

me up inside. I am on medication for depression and bi-polar. I do

see a therapist every week which HELPS tremendously. After 7 years

w/ RA/fibro...I am finally starting to accept my fate.

Some days, yeah it really gets me down. Others when I have a good

day...I take full advantage of it. I have a great husband, but I know

it frustrates him to no end that I have my limitations. We have been

seperated for the last 10 months and are trying to work things out.

What helps me out is thinking " just for today " , therapy and

medication helps. This web board is a huge support system for me. I

would be lost w/o it. You talk to people who know exactly what you

are going through...that is hard to find. One thing that my therapist

has told me and it has stuck w/ me and I mention it all the time on

here is that pain is a feeling...it's not who YOU are. We are here

for you!!!

>

> Hi everyone..

>

> I just wanted to see how many of you are younger with RA? I am 27

and was dx 11 yrs ago, just at the age of 16. I've had a lot of

depression issues with dealing with this at a younger age. I know

some like melynda got is at much younger ages. So I feel guilty even

saying all this. I never mention how I feel like I was robbed of

my " fun years " as I don't want to feel like I'm throwing a pity

party to my friends and family. I don't like to show my emotions,

although it happens from time to time. I also found out recently I

have pcos..polycyctic ovarian syndrome..which means slim chances for

kids. I don't have any, but dearly love my 3 and 1 yr old nieces. I

have had a few failed relationships bc they couldn't handle me being

sick. And the dr wonders why I have depression? And I have severe

limitations in my knee and both elbows. So I am so self concious and

get panic attacks when I go anywhere new. Sorry about venting. I

just wondered how others deal. I don't post very often..I get

nervous..sounds funny..I know. I'm kinda a nut case. Oh well.

Gotta laugh about it..when u can.

>

> Thanks for listening

>

> Central FL

>

[Guest guest]

Hi Melynda

Oh don't get me wrong. I don't regret anything my mom has done for

me. My immediate family is super supportive. I only have 2 friends

that truely get me. I bet it was hard when your mother passed. I

don't know what I would do. She just took me today and yesterday to

my appts. I had a picc line put in last night for my rituxan

treatments. She is always there for me, I just know she feels

guilty. But I tell her all the time, its not her fault. Its nobodys

fault. It just happened. I don't wish this on anyone..and I think I

would be the strongest in my family to take this on. I just realized

with recent events that I do need to fight harder & stronger. I go

through time period where I somewhat give up. My limitations in my

elbows cause them to not straigten. They are like at 90 degree

angles. I told my Rhuemy Tuesday on my last appt, that they are my

barbie arms. He almost fell out of the chair laughing. I told him

this after asking if any of his other patients have these problems.

Bc even when I go to other dr offices, and they have to take my BP,

they are always like straighten your arm. And when I respond " thats

as far as it goes " , they look at my like I have 3 heads. If people in

the medical business are making me feel horrible about it, it just

makes me wonder what the everyday joe thinks. I am somewhat in a

shell, but mainly with new ppl, or ppl that make inappriopraite

comments. Then I tend to shut them out. My knee causes me to limp

pretty badly. That one I can't straighten either. It causes me to

have so much strain on my left foot bc thats where all my weight is

carried. The Drs refuse any knee replacement bc of my age. I can

understand, but it still makes me frustrated to know that there is

something that can be done, but I have to ride it out until they can

do such a procedure. So uncomfortable & makes the things I love

almost impossible & not much fun. I love to shop, but I get so worn

out & I get SOOOOO hot. Like dripping with sweat. I think it has to

do with my meds. I am on Prednisone, Rituxan, Arava, Cymbalta, &

Lortab. I am thinking of getting one of those necklaces that cools

you. I carry ice packs with my to put on my elbows to try to cool me

down. I get embarrased bc I feel like everyone is looking at me

either for the way I walk or the very evident fact Im hot as heck

just walking around and such. Thanks so much for your support &

everyone in the group. I get hesitant to email the group bc I don't

want to bombard anyone with my problems. But lately with all my new

illnesses, I felt I had to vent or I was going to explode..lol

My goodness, you arent having a very good go at it. Im sorry to hear

about all that. You are a strong woman & I know just by your posts,

you will pull through that with flying colors. You are such a

optimist & it gives me hope. Again thanks to everyone's kind support.

--- In , Melynda Gamez <melyndagamez@...>

wrote:

>

> ERIN LIKE I'VE SAID BEFORE EVERYBODY IS DIFFERENT BUT ALIKE IN SOME

WAYS.. WHEN I LOOK BACK I DON'T REGRET ANYTHING MY MOM DID FOR ME TO

MAKE ME BETTER TILL THE DAY SHE DIED, I WAS 14 THEN. IT WAS THE MOST

SCARRIEST DAY OF MY LIFE CUZ MY MOM ALWAYS TOOK ME HERE & THERE TO

FIND SOME KIND OF REMEDY OR CURE FOR ME. DO U MIND ME ASKING WHAT

LIMITATIONS DO U HAVE IN YOUR KNEES & BOTH ELBOWS????????????? ERIN

NO ONE IS PERFECT BY FAR & WE ALL HAVE LIMITATIONS IN ONE WAY OR

ANOTHER..

> IS IT REALY THAT BAD ERIN THAT U FEEL SELF CAUCIOUS? U WANT TO HEAR

SOMETHING? RIGHT NOW I'M HAVING MY FAMILY FEED & DRESS ME CUZ I BROKE

MY ARM,FRACTURED MY WRIST & DISLOCATED MY ELBOW. MY OTHER HAND IS

FUSED DUE TO MY SEVERE RA. I DEAL THOUGH CUZ U NO WHAT MY FAMILY

LOVES ME & I LET THEM HELP. GOD BLESS U SWEETIE, I HOPE U CAN COME

OUT OF THE SHELL I THINK U R IN......GOD BLESS,MELYNDAGAMEZ 8/29/08

10:44P.M.CT     VENT ANYTIME!!!!!!!!!!!!!

------------------------------------

>

>

[Guest guest]

Dodge..

Thanks for replying and letting me know I am not alone. This helps

so much. I'm sorry that you have to go through this too, that's the

bad part.

>

> =============

> Hi everyone..

>

> I just wanted to see how many of you are younger with RA? I am 27

and was dx 11 yrs ago, just at the age of 16. I've had a lot of

depression issues with dealing with this at a younger age. I know

some like melynda got is at much younger ages. So I feel guilty even

saying all this. I never mention how I feel like I was robbed of

my " fun years " as I don't want to feel like I'm throwing a pity

party to my friends and family. I don't like to show my emotions,

although it happens from time to time. I also found out recently I

have pcos..polycyctic ovarian syndrome..which means slim chances for

kids. I don't have any, but dearly love my 3 and 1 yr old nieces. I

have had a few failed relationships bc they couldn't handle me being

sick. And the dr wonders why I have depression? And I have severe

limitations in my knee and both elbows. So I am so self concious and

get panic attacks when I go anywhere new. Sorry about venting. I

just wondered how others deal. I don't post very often..I get

nervous..sounds funny..I know. I'm kinda a nut case. Oh well.

Gotta laugh about it..when u can.

>

> Thanks for listening

>

> Central FL

>

[Guest guest]

Hi ..

Im so glad to be getting in touch with people around my age so I can

compare issues with them. Although the circumstances, well frankly,

suk. Sorry to be so blunt, but very much the truth.

It is very hard to try to keep up with your friends. I have like 2

that can totally understand I can't do things I used to, & I have to

take it easy. Some seem to not care & continue to walk at a rapid

pace & there I am tagging along like 50 yards behind. I have major

depression & I have even thought I am bi-polar, but my gp doesn't

want to hear it. I don't undestand how they can rule that out after

me speaking with them for like 3 mins about my symptoms. I have

contimplated on going to a therapist. But I have a fear of them. I

had to go to 2 on seperate occasions in my life & both were for very

tramatic events that happened to me. So I think its just that I

associate those times with going to see someone. My work has EAP

that can set me up with one, but I dont like the idea of someone else

picking a person that I am the one who has to trust...especially with

my childhood with my real dad. Not a fun time in my life.

Anyhow..moving along..

Im glad that you did find a good husband. Its not good what you are

currently going through though. A seperation can be so tough. I

have seen them & divorces all around me. I know its so stressful &

can affect your RA horribly. Hopefully, this isn't the case. I too,

was totally devestated when I heard I have a slim chance of

pregnancy..even though I am not currently in any position to have a

child. I have no boyfriend & none that I would be interested in

currently..and that is a major step in life, because I know whomever

I ended up possibly having a child, would have to understand some

days I can't take care of myself, let alone a child. So at this

point, my nieces are my " children " . I spoil them when I can & spend

as much time as I can. It just breaks my heart to have my 3 yr old

niece worry about me so much & know where my dr offices are..and know

about my treatments & procedures. Ok, I am rambling on again.

Thanks again for your support

> >

> > Hi everyone..

> >

> > I just wanted to see how many of you are younger with RA? I am

27

> and was dx 11 yrs ago, just at the age of 16. I've had a lot of

> depression issues with dealing with this at a younger age. I know

> some like melynda got is at much younger ages. So I feel guilty

even

> saying all this. I never mention how I feel like I was robbed of

> my " fun years " as I don't want to feel like I'm throwing a pity

> party to my friends and family. I don't like to show my emotions,

> although it happens from time to time. I also found out recently I

> have pcos..polycyctic ovarian syndrome..which means slim chances

for

> kids. I don't have any, but dearly love my 3 and 1 yr old nieces.

I

> have had a few failed relationships bc they couldn't handle me

being

> sick. And the dr wonders why I have depression? And I have severe

> limitations in my knee and both elbows. So I am so self concious

and

> get panic attacks when I go anywhere new. Sorry about venting. I

> just wondered how others deal. I don't post very often..I get

> nervous..sounds funny..I know. I'm kinda a nut case. Oh well.

> Gotta laugh about it..when u can.

> >

> > Thanks for listening

> >

> > Central FL

> >

>

[Guest guest]

Hi Jennie..

Wow..Juvinile RA at 10? I feel bad for complaining now about getting

it at 16. I will also be 28 shortly..In november. Was is hard to

find someone that understands what you are going through & being

supportive? These guys I have dated are a JOKE. No offense to any

males in the group. U most def are a different breed. ;0) Anyhow, I

get the same response as you..or I get this..But you are so young..my

grandmother has that..WHY DO U?? Its kind of like a slap in the

face. Oh well. People just arent brought up properly & nothing I

can do about it. I would not mind chatting at all. Im on im

most of the time..when i remember to sign into it from my phone..its

bella_1180..I also have facebook..im registered under

bella1180@... me know u are from the group so i add

you. There are alot of crazies out there..lol Not in the group..but

u know what I mean. ;0) If anyone else has facebook..you can add

me as well..

Thanks ==

In , <franknjenj3225@...>

wrote:

>

> my name is Jennie i have Juvenile rheumatoid arthrits since i was

10 and i have  alot of other chronic diseases as well as

depression..i am 27 now i will be 28  in feb. i have 2 kids one who i

took in when i got with my husband adopted him as my own son because

his mom was abusive and violent with him.. and i have my daughter 

desi who will be 4 in Dec. You can email me anytime and chat

online...  its hard to be young and sick with RA people think just

because we are young we can handle being sick  more than the older

people but to me its all the same just because we are young doesnt

mean anything... you know?  i get told all the time " oh you are

lucky because you are young "   lucky my butt..  lol  anyways its nice

to know there are alot of us out there...  bye for now and just

remember  we are all here for eachother!    bye bye

>

>

>

> From: bella_1180 <bella1180@...>

> Subject: [ ] Younger people with ra

>

> Date: Friday, August 29, 2008, 9:38 PM

>

>

>

>

>

>

> Hi everyone..

>

> I just wanted to see how many of you are younger with RA? I am 27

and was dx 11 yrs ago, just at the age of 16. I've had a lot of

depression issues with dealing with this at a younger age. I know

some like melynda got is at much younger ages. So I feel guilty even

saying all this. I never mention how I feel like I was robbed of

my " fun years " as I don't want to feel like I'm throwing a pity party

to my friends and family. I don't like to show my emotions, although

it happens from time to time. I also found out recently I have

pcos..polycyctic ovarian syndrome..which means slim chances for kids.

I don't have any, but dearly love my 3 and 1 yr old nieces. I have

had a few failed relationships bc they couldn't handle me being sick.

And the dr wonders why I have depression? And I have severe

limitations in my knee and both elbows. So I am so self concious and

get panic attacks when I go anywhere new. Sorry about venting. I just

wondered how others deal. I

> don't post very often..I get nervous..sounds funny..I know. I'm

kinda a nut case. Oh well. Gotta laugh about it..when u can.

>

> Thanks for listening

>

> Central FL

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

,

You sound like a quite remarable young lady to me. You have already

been through so much!

Sweetie, anytime you need to vent, do it, don't be hesitant. We care

and know that you are in pain and distress.

I am hoping that today is a much better one for you.

Shirley

--- In , " bella_1180 " <bella1180@...>

wrote:

>

> Hi Melynda

>

> Oh don't get me wrong. I don't regret anything my mom has done

for

> me. My immediate family is super supportive. I only have 2

friends

> that truely get me. I bet it was hard when your mother passed. I

> don't know what I would do. She just took me today and yesterday

to

> my appts. I had a picc line put in last night for my rituxan

> treatments. She is always there for me, I just know she feels

> guilty. But I tell her all the time, its not her fault. Its

nobodys

> fault. It just happened. I don't wish this on anyone..and I

think I

> would be the strongest in my family to take this on. I just

realized

> with recent events that I do need to fight harder & stronger. I

go

> through time period where I somewhat give up. My limitations in

my

> elbows cause them to not straigten. They are like at 90 degree

> angles. I told my Rhuemy Tuesday on my last appt, that they are

my

> barbie arms. He almost fell out of the chair laughing. I told him

> this after asking if any of his other patients have these

problems.

> Bc even when I go to other dr offices, and they have to take my

BP,

> they are always like straighten your arm. And when I

respond " thats

> as far as it goes " , they look at my like I have 3 heads. If people

in

> the medical business are making me feel horrible about it, it just

> makes me wonder what the everyday joe thinks. I am somewhat in a

> shell, but mainly with new ppl, or ppl that make inappriopraite

> comments. Then I tend to shut them out. My knee causes me to

limp

> pretty badly. That one I can't straighten either. It causes me

to

> have so much strain on my left foot bc thats where all my weight

is

> carried. The Drs refuse any knee replacement bc of my age. I can

> understand, but it still makes me frustrated to know that there is

> something that can be done, but I have to ride it out until they

can

> do such a procedure. So uncomfortable & makes the things I love

> almost impossible & not much fun. I love to shop, but I get so

worn

> out & I get SOOOOO hot. Like dripping with sweat. I think it has

to

> do with my meds. I am on Prednisone, Rituxan, Arava, Cymbalta, &

> Lortab. I am thinking of getting one of those necklaces that

cools

> you. I carry ice packs with my to put on my elbows to try to cool

me

> down. I get embarrased bc I feel like everyone is looking at me

> either for the way I walk or the very evident fact Im hot as heck

> just walking around and such. Thanks so much for your support &

> everyone in the group. I get hesitant to email the group bc I

don't

> want to bombard anyone with my problems. But lately with all my

new

> illnesses, I felt I had to vent or I was going to explode..lol

>

> My goodness, you arent having a very good go at it. Im sorry to

hear

> about all that. You are a strong woman & I know just by your

posts,

> you will pull through that with flying colors. You are such a

> optimist & it gives me hope. Again thanks to everyone's kind

support.

>

>

[Guest guest]

Group;

Hello everyone, my daughter said something that hurt me. She didnt

mean to hurt me for she is a very loving daughter. She said " My

mother n law must have a high tollerance for pain she is not hurting

from RA like you are. " Myself I thought everyone has a different

level of RA. I didnt know how to explain this to her. Her mother n

law hurts from RA, but she is able to clean house, I can't do much

of anything. I dont hurt like I use to, taking the prednisone is

great. But I still am unable to clean house like I use to. Anyone

know why this is?

gentle hugs everyone

Clora

>

> Hi ..

> Im so glad to be getting in touch with people around my age so I

can

> compare issues with them. Although the circumstances, well

frankly,

> suk. Sorry to be so blunt, but very much the truth.

>

> It is very hard to try to keep up with your friends. I have like

2

> that can totally understand I can't do things I used to, & I have

to

> take it easy. Some seem to not care & continue to walk at a rapid

> pace & there I am tagging along like 50 yards behind. I have

major

> depression & I have even thought I am bi-polar, but my gp doesn't

> want to hear it. I don't undestand how they can rule that out

after

> me speaking with them for like 3 mins about my symptoms. I have

> contimplated on going to a therapist. But I have a fear of them.

I

> had to go to 2 on seperate occasions in my life & both were for

very

> tramatic events that happened to me. So I think its just that I

> associate those times with going to see someone. My work has EAP

> that can set me up with one, but I dont like the idea of someone

else

> picking a person that I am the one who has to trust...especially

with

> my childhood with my real dad. Not a fun time in my life.

> Anyhow..moving along..

>

> Im glad that you did find a good husband. Its not good what you

are

> currently going through though. A seperation can be so tough. I

> have seen them & divorces all around me. I know its so stressful

&

> can affect your RA horribly. Hopefully, this isn't the case. I

too,

> was totally devestated when I heard I have a slim chance of

> pregnancy..even though I am not currently in any position to have

a

> child. I have no boyfriend & none that I would be interested in

> currently..and that is a major step in life, because I know

whomever

> I ended up possibly having a child, would have to understand some

> days I can't take care of myself, let alone a child. So at this

> point, my nieces are my " children " . I spoil them when I can &

spend

> as much time as I can. It just breaks my heart to have my 3 yr

old

> niece worry about me so much & know where my dr offices are..and

know

> about my treatments & procedures. Ok, I am rambling on again.

>

> Thanks again for your support

>

>

>

> >

> > ,

> > I wasn't as young as you when I was diagnosed (age 24). It's

hard

> > when you can't keep up w/ your friends. It has been hard for me

to

> > deal w/ it and I still struggle with it. I too have PCOS and

> > endometriosis, plus other health issues which will make it

almost

> > impossible for me to have a child of my own (less then 2%). It

> > hurts, because I know my husband wants a child of his own. It

> tears

> > me up inside. I am on medication for depression and bi-polar.

I

> do

>

> > see a therapist every week which HELPS tremendously. After 7

years

> > w/ RA/fibro...I am finally starting to accept my fate.

> > Some days, yeah it really gets me down. Others when I have a

good

> > day...I take full advantage of it. I have a great husband, but I

> know

> > it frustrates him to no end that I have my limitations. We have

> been

> > seperated for the last 10 months and are trying to work things

out.

> > What helps me out is thinking " just for today " , therapy and

> > medication helps. This web board is a huge support system for

me.

> I

> > would be lost w/o it. You talk to people who know exactly what

you

> > are going through...that is hard to find. One thing that my

> therapist

> > has told me and it has stuck w/ me and I mention it all the time

on

> > here is that pain is a feeling...it's not who YOU are. We are

here

> > for you!!!

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> > --- In , " bella_1180 " <bella1180@>

wrote:

> > >

> > > Hi everyone..

> > >

> > > I just wanted to see how many of you are younger with RA? I

am

> 27

> > and was dx 11 yrs ago, just at the age of 16. I've had a lot of

> > depression issues with dealing with this at a younger age. I

know

> > some like melynda got is at much younger ages. So I feel guilty

> even

> > saying all this. I never mention how I feel like I was robbed

of

> > my " fun years " as I don't want to feel like I'm throwing a pity

> > party to my friends and family. I don't like to show my

emotions,

> > although it happens from time to time. I also found out

recently I

> > have pcos..polycyctic ovarian syndrome..which means slim chances

> for

> > kids. I don't have any, but dearly love my 3 and 1 yr old

nieces.

> I

> > have had a few failed relationships bc they couldn't handle me

> being

> > sick. And the dr wonders why I have depression? And I have

severe

> > limitations in my knee and both elbows. So I am so self

concious

> and

> > get panic attacks when I go anywhere new. Sorry about venting.

I

> > just wondered how others deal. I don't post very often..I get

> > nervous..sounds funny..I know. I'm kinda a nut case. Oh well.

> > Gotta laugh about it..when u can.

> > >

> > > Thanks for listening

> > >

> > > Central FL

> > >

> >

>

[Guest guest]

Hi -- you've been very brave!! I was 16 when I was diagnosed and I;m 28

now. Alot of what you're saying sounds familiar!! Luckily, I have the disease

under control and my husband and I are expecting our first child (I " m 8 weeks

pregnant!) Please always remember that you have rheumatoid arthritis, it does

not have you!!!

 

Krissy Waller

 

" The minute you settle for less than you deserve, you get even less than you

settled for. "

 

 

 

 

[Guest guest]

Hi !

I'm 31 and came down with RA at 29. So while I'm not as young as you were, I

still feel like my " fun years " were stolen. You shouldn't feel guilty at all

for thinking that. I think in some ways you have to mourn the " what could've

beens " in order to accept what will be. Luckily I had my children before coming

down with RA, but because I'm on MTX I won't be able to have the 3rd child I've

always wanted. I made that choice because I can't risk coming off of the

medication and not being able to care for the children I already have.

There are people out there who will love you regardless of your illness. You

just haven't found them yet. Don't give up hope!!!

Have you tried all of the medications that are available? It wasn't until I

started Humira that I got some of my life back.

While I don't feel blessed for having RA, I've learned a lot from it. I

appreciate everything. I take joy from the little things in life. I'm grateful

for what I have and what I can still do. That's what I focus on, else I'd be

depressed too. Just remember that you may have RA, but RA isn't you. It's very

easy to become the disease and get caught up in everything you can't do.

Just remember that there's more to life than this.

Lori

http://home.comcast.net/~queenstitcher/

http://stitchingqueen.multiply.com

[Guest guest]

Dorothy and Group;

Tysm for answering my post Dorthy. I didnt think my pain level was

high or low. Its the way RA works. I felt just pain for a few years

and than bam I was in so much pain from RA I couldnt move my body.

Right now I cant even think of doing anything. The RA is bearable

unless I do something.

Yessssss prednisone is great. I took 10 mg and seem fine. That is so

confusing. Most people whom are in pain one has to wait to heal to

do anything. With RA it depends on what meds we take. For instanse,

if one pulls a muscle exercising one must let it heal before

exercising again. But with RA its completely different.

I will just let it go. No use getting upset it will just agrivate my

RA.

gentle hugs everyone

Clora

> Clora..we are all different and we vary from day to day. Some

days, I can

> move the furniture to vacuum..other days, I can't lift the

blankets off to

> get out of bed. When I was on 60 mg of Prednisone, I could have

lifted my

> car to clean under it!! LOL

>

>

>

> Your daughter doesn't understand. I would just answer her by

saying, " Your

> mother-in-law is very fortunate. "

>

>

>

> Some people don't get it and never will.

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

I was diagnosed with RA a year ago at the age of 25. My RA came on very

quickly and hit me very hard. In just short of 4 months I went from

working out 3 times a week to not being able to get out of bed. I am a

teacher so the people I worked with would make comments about how lazy

I was. There are a lot of times that I feel like I have lost a big part

of myself. With everything that I go through I really feel sorry for my

husband. He is a loving and supportive man and I am very lucky to have

found him. I am on orencia and everything has to be planned around my

treatments. IT SUCKS!!!! It is wonderful to read posts from people my

age. Wishing you a pain free day!!!!

~Larissa

[Guest guest]

,

Like everything else, you need to find a therapist that would be good

for you. I have seen therapists on and off for years, but I finally

found one that specializes with people who have chronic pain

conditions and PTSD; she is great. It has made a world of difference

for me. I had to file for SSDI because of my RA/fibro and it's hard.

People look at you and think because you are young, you are fine. My

career was in heatlhcare, so alot of my friends were pretty

understanding.

My family has been another story. They think that I am lazy and it's

all in my head. Talking with people on here, connecting with people

who know what you are going through helps. It is good to have a good

support system, I would be lost w/o this group. We are here for

you. You don't have to go through the pain, obsticales, alone. Take

care.

> >

> > ,

> > I wasn't as young as you when I was diagnosed (age 24). It's

hard

> > when you can't keep up w/ your friends. It has been hard for me

to

> > deal w/ it and I still struggle with it. I too have PCOS and

> > endometriosis, plus other health issues which will make it almost

> > impossible for me to have a child of my own (less then 2%). It

> > hurts, because I know my husband wants a child of his own. It

> tears

> > me up inside. I am on medication for depression and bi-polar. I

> do

>

> > see a therapist every week which HELPS tremendously. After 7

years

> > w/ RA/fibro...I am finally starting to accept my fate.

> > Some days, yeah it really gets me down. Others when I have a good

> > day...I take full advantage of it. I have a great husband, but I

> know

> > it frustrates him to no end that I have my limitations. We have

> been

> > seperated for the last 10 months and are trying to work things

out.

> > What helps me out is thinking " just for today " , therapy and

> > medication helps. This web board is a huge support system for

me.

> I

> > would be lost w/o it. You talk to people who know exactly what

you

> > are going through...that is hard to find. One thing that my

> therapist

> > has told me and it has stuck w/ me and I mention it all the time

on

> > here is that pain is a feeling...it's not who YOU are. We are

here

> > for you!!!

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> > --- In , " bella_1180 " <bella1180@>

wrote:

> > >

> > > Hi everyone..

> > >

> > > I just wanted to see how many of you are younger with RA? I am

> 27

> > and was dx 11 yrs ago, just at the age of 16. I've had a lot of

> > depression issues with dealing with this at a younger age. I

know

> > some like melynda got is at much younger ages. So I feel guilty

> even

> > saying all this. I never mention how I feel like I was robbed of

> > my " fun years " as I don't want to feel like I'm throwing a pity

> > party to my friends and family. I don't like to show my

emotions,

> > although it happens from time to time. I also found out recently

I

> > have pcos..polycyctic ovarian syndrome..which means slim chances

> for

> > kids. I don't have any, but dearly love my 3 and 1 yr old

nieces.

> I

> > have had a few failed relationships bc they couldn't handle me

> being

> > sick. And the dr wonders why I have depression? And I have

severe

> > limitations in my knee and both elbows. So I am so self concious

> and

> > get panic attacks when I go anywhere new. Sorry about venting.

I

> > just wondered how others deal. I don't post very often..I get

> > nervous..sounds funny..I know. I'm kinda a nut case. Oh well.

> > Gotta laugh about it..when u can.

> > >

> > > Thanks for listening

> > >

> > > Central FL

> > >

> >

>

[Guest guest]

Larissa,

(BEAUTIFUL name)

People are ignorant and cruel. It is so hard not to get angry. I

know how you feel, Sweetie. My own family doesn't care enough to

read anything. It's like being dumb about something is an excuse to

say what ever they want to. I try not to let it bother me any more.

How sad though.

So glad that you have such a wonderful hubby. God bless him and you.

I hope this is a good day and weekend for you too.

Shirley

--- In , " cinderrissie " <cinderrissie@...>

wrote:

>

> I was diagnosed with RA a year ago at the age of 25. My RA came on

very

> quickly and hit me very hard. In just short of 4 months I went

from

> working out 3 times a week to not being able to get out of bed. I

am a

> teacher so the people I worked with would make comments about how

lazy

> I was. There are a lot of times that I feel like I have lost a big

part

> of myself. With everything that I go through I really feel sorry

for my

> husband. He is a loving and supportive man and I am very lucky to

have

> found him. I am on orencia and everything has to be planned around

my

> treatments. IT SUCKS!!!! It is wonderful to read posts from people

my

> age. Wishing you a pain free day!!!!

> ~Larissa

>

[Guest guest]

I'm still on it.

Steph

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ The 2008 Charlottesville

Arthritis Walk was Sat. May 3 at UVA's Stadium The Walk raises both

awareness of the prevalence of arthritis and money for research & programs for

people with arthritis!  The Cville walk raised over $25,000!   " Never

underestimate the power of a small, dedicated group of people to change the

world -- indeed, it's the only thing that ever has. " (Margaret Mead) AmeriCorps

Alums -- Still Getting Things Done

[Guest guest]

Hi ,

I have had it since I was 19 but it took me until this

year to get a formal diagnosis. I'm 36 now. Finally on RA

drugs and finally have docs that don't think I'm crazy for it.

I've also had failed relationships due to it. One guy told me

I was a hypocondriac and made fun of me.. called me an

old lady.. Are you currently dating? If so how do you bring it

up with the guys without scarying them off or making them act

like you can't do anything yourself?? Just wondering.

Hope today is better for you,

Margaret

>

> Hi everyone..

>

> I just wanted to see how many of you are younger with RA? I am 27

and was dx 11 yrs ago, just at the age of 16. I've had a lot of

depression issues with dealing with this at a younger age. I know

some like melynda got is at much younger ages. So I feel guilty even

saying all this. I never mention how I feel like I was robbed of my

" fun years " as I don't want to feel like I'm throwing a pity party to

my friends and family. I don't like to show my emotions, although it

happens from time to time. I also found out recently I have

pcos..polycyctic ovarian syndrome..which means slim chances for kids.

I don't have any, but dearly love my 3 and 1 yr old nieces. I have

had a few failed relationships bc they couldn't handle me being sick.

And the dr wonders why I have depression? And I have severe

limitations in my knee and both elbows. So I am so self concious and

get panic attacks when I go anywhere new. Sorry about venting. I

just wondered how others deal. I don't post very often..I get

nervous..sounds funny..I know. I'm kinda a nut case. Oh well. Gotta

laugh about it..when u can.

>

> Thanks for listening

>

> Central FL

>