Rheumatoid Arthritis Support Group

I believe I've had RA for almost 4 years now, if not longer. Most of my pain that is associated with RA started after the birth of my son nearly 4 years ago, however, I've had arthritic type pain for most of my life.

I had been diagnosed with fibromyalgia, and even trying to get second opinions for my condition was like pulling teeth, because doctors assume all tests were run to eliminate any other disease/condition before the diagnosis of fibromyalgia was given. That was not the case, the doctor just seemed to want to wash his hands of me and pump me with some new medications that were out for fibromyalgia.

In July of this year, with the prodding of my sister, I went to a RA doc, of my choice, who wiped my slate clean and started her own tests. I've been on Methotrexate for nearly 4 months now, and have seen a big improvement. I can actually walk to the end of my driveway to get mail without crying.

I am here because I know I'm not alone in my pain, and I also want to learn from others, offer support - even if it is just by giving a virtual hug.

MysticMoon, welcome to the group! We're so glad you've come to join us, and that you were brave& strong enough to strike out on your own, and leave your former doctor behind in search of another. It was undoubtedly the best decision you ever made, because you saw the results that come with appropriate treatment. We're so glad that you were able to resume some sort of a "normal" life, and that you're willing to share your story with us.

We all learn from each other.. trials and errors, questions, venting.. it's all so valuable to our experiences.

Thank you for sharing a portion of "your story" with us, and we look forward to hearing much more from you!

May you continue to feel well...

Mystic Moon,

Hi, welcome to the group. It sounds like you are on the road to a "new normal". You found yourself a Dr. you like, and you found this group! I was diagnosed 5 years ago, and it has been a real struggle, as I'm sure you know. Glad to meet you, keep posting!

ANdrea

Welcome to the family, we're so glad to have you with us. It's really refreshing to hear success stories regarding medication, for that reason alone, you could be a great inspiration to many members. This is a wonderful place to be for support, understanding and information. Of course, the friendships you will make are really cool too

Please make yourself right at home and let us know if you have any questions or we can help in anyway at all.

Thank you all so much. I like the idea of a "new normal" because I struggle every day with the fact that I'm not able to do what I was this time last year, or the year before. But now I have rhyme and reason to the why and it sort of helps. I guess I have to start with a clean slate and use this as my baseline, rather than trying to strive to reach what I was before RA kicked me in the butt.

Thank you all for your kindness and support.

Hi Mystic Moon,

I somehow missed this post, but I wanted to offer a welcome, as well. I also have been diagnosed with fibromyalgia-about 15 years ago. But, I knew I had it way before that. I feel that I'm in a partial remission (about 90% better) with that, which occurred once I found the right antidepressant. When my RA started up about 4 years ago, I thought the fibro was starting back up, but of course looking back, I know it was the RA. I am also on methotrexate (Plaquenil also) with good results.

It must be really tough having the RA with a little one to take care of. I hope you had/have really good support.

Take care.

Hi mystic Moon,

Welcome dear. So glad you are doing well with MTX. Wonderful, wonderful news.

Hope to hear from you more.

Hugs

MysticMoon, Hello... and Welcome. Love the name! I'm also glad you found the group, and are doing better. You certainly have a positive attitude, which surely will be a big help, as time goes on. Hope you'll stop by often. Barbara