Never give up hope!

[Guest guest]

I've been on this list for years and have benefited many times from

the wisdom of others.

Once I got an official PA diagnosis, which like many took waaaaaay

too long, I've progressed along with the two steps forward, one step

back approach to PA. There have been some really rotten days, but

things have gradually improved.....thanks to Enbrel primarily.

Yesterday I went to the doctor for my annual physical. When I got

home I organized my 15 different assorted pills, etc. and reflected

that for the first time in almost ten years, I'd gone to the doctor

and not talked about my arthritis! I discussed " girl stuff " , aging,

shingles, etc. I do not take this lightly.

The point of this little story.....for many of us there are some

horrible, crappy days, but with a little luck, good insurance, a

supportive family, and a decent doctor, we can progress forward by

taking baby steps a little at a time. Going to the doctor without PA

being the uppermost thought on my brain was a red letter day for me!

Sadly, many don't have the insurance, doctor, family, or even the

good fortune to have a day like I had yesterday. Hang in there,

folks, and never give up hope that some day you can go to the doctor

and just talk about shingles and growing old.

PS---you don't want shingles either. If you are over 50, ask your

doctor about a shingles shot. I blew it off when someone suggested I

get one....be smarter than me. It will be worth every penny!

Enjoy the holidays,

Liz T