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I am 30 and I have been diagonosed with RA since I was around 2 yrs old and have had 3 surgeries on one knee alone.  For those of whom stated below you can't be that progressed at 26, please bite your tongue.  They didn't officially know that it was RA with me, I was a guinea pig  for years and still to this day are they testing me for lupus and more things as well.  I have had surgeries, I have a sway in my hands, I limp, and can barely fasten my bra at times!  Regardless of your pain, remember bodies in motion, stay in motion.  YOU ARE NOT LAZY!  but be honest with everyone.  If you are having a flare up, let them know that unfortunately you can't but that you would love to when you are feeling better.  Remember although it's a disease, you are alive!  Live your life!  I have accomplished plenty of activities throughout my life, but don't let it consume you.  Gather up information about RA, ask your doctor questions, bring your boyfriend to your appointments, but don't fall into being "lazy" because you just don't feel great that day.  Sometimes getting up and going for a walk will make you feel a lot better than curling up on the couch!  And remember, having RA you need to excercise to help your body!  Good luck!