Re: Welcome Newbies - Newly Diagnosed 22 year old here :)

October 1, 2008

Thank you for the welcome Tawny! I am glad that I have found a place

where I am not alone. Let me share a little bit about myself:

I joined this group because I am 22 and was recently diagnosed with

secondary Sjogren's syndrome with RA. I've had it for nearly a decade,

apparently; but just found out what it really was (and thank the Lord

for leading me to the right doctors). I've suffered for many years,

going from doctor to doctor with the same answer - " there's nothing

wrong with you. " (If I could possibly offer any adivce it would be to

listen to your kids when they say something is wrong, and ensure

they're doctor's listen to them too.)

Worst of all, I've gone those many years being the only one my age with

all of the problems associated with Sjogren's and RA. It has been a

very tough decade for me. All I can remember is pain and fatique.

If there is anyone out there who was diagnosed in their 20's, please

share your thoughts and comments with me. I am having a hard time

coping with my diagnoses.

I look forward to getting to know many of you. I think I'll be a

member of this group for many years.

- B.

>

> Welcome to the group. I'm sorry the reason that brought you here,

but

> this is the best place to be for information and support. I am

> looking forward to getting to know you all, Tawny

>

October 1, 2008

,

I am so glad your here with us. Were all ages here, and there are a

lot of young members here to help you. I was dx at 40, my rheumy

told me I've had RA for a very long time. I started hurting in my

early 20's, and I always blamed it on an old injury. I was

physically abused by my first hubby, and I have a lot of old injuries

from him. My doctor would give me NSAIDS all the time, and tell my I

had arthritis. I didn't really know there was a difference in

arthritis. I also have sjogren's too. When one has RA, they have

many other autoimmune disorders.

I am 45 now, so I've had a few years to deal with this disease, and

try to help myself. I have a severe case now, I'm sure waiting so

long to get the help my body needed.

It is very overwhelming when first dx. It gets better, I promise.

What helped me, is this group. I knew nothing about RA, but I do

now. I've met so many wonderful people, all ages. Were all united

together.

It sounds like you have a good doc now. What type of meds are you

on? If you ever need to chat, you can email me anytime.

Hugs, Tawny

> >

> > Welcome to the group. I'm sorry the reason that brought you

here,

> but

> > this is the best place to be for information and support. I am

> > looking forward to getting to know you all, Tawny

> >

>

October 2, 2008

Hello ,

I'm glad you found this place too. When I first got diagnosed this

was a great resource for me too. I was diagnosed with RA about nine

months ago and I'm 26 yrs old. I've had it for years too and was

told several times that it was " in my head " . So I definately

understand your frustration.

All these crazy medicines were really difficult for me and

everything else that goes along with our situation. I seemed to have

overcome the mental aspect of the disease and would be happy to

listen if you need anyone to talk to. I know that I just had to

talk and talk about it for months to , I guess really come to terms

with it.

When I was first diagnosed people who had RA told me the first year

is the hardest, and they were right. I know that's not much help

right now. But keep in mind- it will get easier. And don't be

afraid to ask for help.

Again, keep me in mind. I check in about once a week, so hopefully

we will keep in touch.

Take care,

S.

Hill, CA

> >

> > Welcome to the group. I'm sorry the reason that brought you

here,

> but

> > this is the best place to be for information and support. I am

> > looking forward to getting to know you all, Tawny

> >

>

October 2, 2008

I was 29 somewhat older, but still in my 20's. I was devastated when i first

found out I had RA. I have never been in remission since I was diagnosed 5 years

ago. I need a new knee now. I have two children. When I was first diagnosed my

youngest child was 2. Try running after a two year old when your in pain all the

time. OUCH and fatigue. I need a new knee now and I am only 34. I miss the

simple things in life. Dancing, shopping, taking a shower without pain. I know

it is hard. I cope by trying to stay positive. I hurt all the time, but I really

feel attitude and outlook on life can really help. Try and stay positive and

have lots of laughter and good people in your life. I know the times i have been

down upset and crying I feel worse. People around me want to know why I am

always smiling and how can I stay positive being in so much pain. Well I don't

want to just sit home and cry and feel sorry for myself. What good is that going

to do me or my

children. My advice is keep your head up and try to make the best out life.

From: ljbreeden <ljochetz@...>

Subject: [ ] Re: Welcome Newbies - Newly Diagnosed 22 year old here

Date: Wednesday, October 1, 2008, 3:22 PM

Thank you for the welcome Tawny! I am glad that I have found a

place