My story

Melinda Winner suggested I share a little bit about me so here it goes: I am 59 years old and was diagnosed with RA in 2001.  At that time, I was teaching 2nd grade in upstate NY.  Things were pretty bad then.  It was all I could do to get through each day and I spent every non-working minute recuperating for the next day or work week. On some days every joint hurt and co-workers were suggesting I get a cane. I moved like an 80 year old.  The fatigue was overwhelming. At first I was on methotrexate and prednisone, among other drugs, but finally got put on Enbrel.  It has made a huge difference in the quality of my life. 

In 2004, I was able to retire (although I loved every minute of my work) and this further improved my situation as I was better able to manage my illness. I had been a boater before RA but had given it up as impossible to continue.  As I learned to manage my illness, it became clear that anything was possible if I planned ahead and prepared.  My wife and I purchased a sailboat and in 2006 we did the Intra-Coastal Waterway between North Carolina and Florida.  It was a 6 month/2400 mile journey that was unfortgettable and we managed it in spite of my RA.  It was the realization of a long time dream and proved that RA doesn't have to hold you back if you don't let it.

I have found that regular exercise is an important key to managing this disease.  Although there are occasional days when I can only lie on the couch and sleep, most days I do pretty well and the exercise program pays big dividends in reducing swelling and stiffness. I find that I can enjoy riding my bike which is low impacto n my joints.

My wife and I run a bed and breakfast in upstate NY during the spring-summer-fall months. www.woodlawnbb.com  

My motto is : "Better Days lie ahead!"

Life is sweet!

Steve