Re: Newbie Donna

[Guest guest]

Hi Donna - welcome to the group. I'm sorry you've gotten THIS diagnosis, but

happy you have come here for support. You are not alone and you've found a

wonderful support system in the people here. This is a scary time and I don't

know what I would have done if not for the support of others who are

experiencing the same thing.

While there is nothing you can do to " undo " the RA, you can be proactive with

your Rheumy and be aggressive in getting this disease into remission. Its not an

easy task - some are able to achieve remission sooner than others - but it can

be done. I've chosen to be as creative as I can while dealing with all of this.

Finding new ways to do the things I can no longer do in a " normal " way. Some

days (like yesterday) I throw all caution to the the wind, enjoy the day as

fully as I can - knowing I am going to pay for it today.

In the meantime, do what you can, rest when you need to (the fatigue can be

overwhelming at times) and know we're all here to support you along the

way.....Doreen

Although I was not the originator of this thread, I wanted to thank you all for

the comments. I am new to this forum and to this disease. I was diagnosed a

few weeks ago with RA. My life has changed so drastically in the past three

months. I was a very active person who was athletic, always moving and always

doing something. In a matter of 2-3 weeks everything changed. I am involved in

photography and found I could not even lift my camera, much less hold it.

My PCP was shocked looking at my hands, and also with my lab results and

immediately got me an appt. with a Rheumy. He now has me on MTX along with

prednisone and folic acid. They said the RA was caught early. However, right

now I am still trying to adjust to the fears and tears this disease has brought

to me. I was so frightened to start the meds.

I'm also having a difficult time trying to figure out what I can do physically.

Most times I feel ok and then pay for it a few hours later. I also battle

fatigue. It's like I aged 50 years in one month. I know from reading the posts

you understand. Thanks for listening.

Donna