Most people have heard about the holiday blues, but not many have heard of the holiday flares. For those of us with rheumatoid arthritis this time of year can be the beginning of very painful season. There are many contributing factors to why you may experience a flare during the holidays; bad eating, stress and depression, just to name a few.... Read more
One of the most difficult aspects of having a chronic disease like rheumatoid arthritis is losing your self to the disease. Suddenly your life is about constant pain, doctors' appointments and medications. You wake up each day and wonder, who am I? How did I become this person? You look in the mirror and you just want to look away because you... Read more
When I was first diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis, I really had no idea of the long term affects of this disease. In the beginning, I was overwhelmed with the pain and changes in my body. All I could think about each day was the doctors' visits and the endless amounts of medication. I didn't know anyone else who had RA who I could ask... Read more
Before I was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis, I was happy, healthy and skinny! I never really had to worry about my weight or my looks in general. I was raised to be confident and secure in myself. Despite being raised with a high level of self-esteem, I was hardly prepared for the physical and emotional changes that I would face living with... Read more
Sometimes it can be overwhelming to think about all of the different options available for treating RA, but it’s also exciting to know that there are alternatives. We read so much about new medications for treating RA, as well as the side effects and concerns that come along with these advances. I have personally tried most everything and have... Read more
