Guest guest Posted August 10, 2009 Report Share Posted August 10, 2009 Hello newbies & friends, Welcome to . I'm Steph in Charlottesville, Virginia and I have been living with RA for almost 10 years. I know that having RA is an overwhelming experience. I have been a member of this group for 9 years. One of the main reasons I stay is to provide hope for others. Much of the news we hear about RA and the available meds is very scary and very real. However, I made the choice early on that I would accept the risks if the benefits were worth it. I take Ibuprofen, Flexerill and Remicade. Remicade has allowed me to lead a full life -- I work full time (and have great insurance), have participated in 2 marathons with the Arthritis Fdtn and recently bought a 3 story townhouse with my husband. My point is this -- the side effects are real and should not be dismissed. However, moderate to severe RA cannot be tamed without biologics. Whatever you do, find a great rheumy, a great pharmacist, fight for your rights with insurance and never, ever let anyone take away your hope. Take care, Steph in VA ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ The 2009 Charlottesville Arthritis Walk was Sat. May 2 at UVA's Stadium The Walk raised about $20,000 for research & programs for people with arthritis! " 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 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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