Re: Re:arthritis in the spine

[Guest guest]

Hi Fran,

I really liked what you said to Tracrace22 about thinking positive. I know I

tell myself and other people that their are many people out there who are in a

lot worse shape than I am. I have had PsA since at least 2000; misdiagnosed with

fibro in 2005; after thorough testing including a bone scan I was diagnosed with

PsA after the damage to my joints has has already become noticeable. I just

started Humira a month ago and have started prednisone this week due to

debilitating pain. I take Vicodin 2-4 times daily to help with the pain, my

rheumy is going to recheck my liver enzyme level next month and possibly put me

on MTX. I have blown through all my sick days and vacation time at my job and am

considering going on disability through my job for 10 weeks. I am terrified to

take the disability step, I am the only person working in my house and the fear

of loosing my house pushes me along probably further than I should go but I

don't know what

else to do. I love to use my spare time to read, look up people and info on the

internet and watch movies and TV shows. I am not very active which has increased

my weight substantially from 130 to 190 in the last 2 years, nothing fits and I

am always in to much pain to even take a walk outside, I have crutches to help

me in case my ankles and/or knees give out, but no wheelchair or walker. People

with debilitating diseases are in the unique situation of being in almost

constant pain and told to exercise to keep their joints and muscles moving and I

am always so fatigued, I could lay in bed or on the couch all day and I have.

You just can't win. Have you had a similar work situation that you could share

any advice? I hope today was a good day for you and all in this group and hope

tomorrow will be better for all.

Lori in AZ 

[Guest guest]

Fran,

Thanks for sharing your pep talk. The roller derby made me chuckle - I know

exactly what you're describing. Hope you also are thankful for being in Florida

- this northerner is sooo tired of winter. Again, thanks for the uplifting

message.

Janette

[Guest guest]

Hi Fran,

Good to hear from you that you're out there and still rolling along :)I'm

concerned though, are you really going to try Simponi after the damage that

Humira caused to your lungs? I understand that problem of trying to find

something to relieve the pain and inflammation, but I'd be to scared to try

Simponi. I had to stop Humira after it gave me MS-type symptoms. A close friend

with RA recently had to stop Enbrel after using it for many years as she became

allergic to it. Just expressing my concerns....

warm blessings,

jane