I turned 30 last March and was diagnosed the previous October. So I was only 29. I am male and my wife has had to watch all my painful symptoms as well. Just getting up from the chair to go to the restroom could be quite an ordeal. I have been on plaquenil and prednisone, now off the prednisone and my doctor just prescribed Humira.  I had my first injection this past Saturday, and whether or not it is in my head, I believe it helped take some of the edge off the pain and stiffness.  I have my fingers crossed for the next injection that it continues.  RA has been a very painful disease and stairs were the first thing to go for me.  I may not be able to ever conquer the stairs again, but walking normally will always satisfy me. Imagine how they look at you when you can walk into the BMV and get a handicap placard at age 30; people assume you are a faker.  In reality, some days I can not walk very far at all.  I understand all the pain your husband's must have, I too live it.