Fighting RA without RA meds, anyone else out there?

[Guest guest]

Hi, I guess I've been in denial about RA, even though I was diagnosed at age 3

with JRA. I was diagnosed with Lupus 2 years ago this month and RA is showing

it's ugly face daily in different joints. Due to years of NSAIDS my liver is

damaged/toxic and reacts to any of the meds my rheumy has suggested. I am also a

Cancer survivor which adds to the 'no you can't take that' list. I just want to

know if anyone out there is in the same situation or am I the lucky woman out?

I'm 45 years old and my life has drastically changed. Acceptance is hard, I

need support or someone to talk to. My employer is worried about money and of

course, my work ethic is Ideal, I work more than the able bodied. So, stress is

elevated right now. I have had to move in with my dad, just so I can afford to

go to the doctors I need to see. I am trying physical/occupational therapy and

see what options I have, if any. I work in an office environment and my hands

are suffering big time. I used to pride myself on being independent and now I

am learning to say no (feel guilty when I do) and stop when I am tired.

I would appreciate emails, if you don't mind. My pc time is limited in the

evenings due to fatigue from working and the Lupus. I hope each of you have a

few hours of pain free time at some point. Thanks for listening and may peace

find our joints. anita