Shortly after I found out I had rheumatoid arthritis I had to start using a cane to help with my mobility.

I started using it a lot around my house, but knew that if I was ever going to get out of my house, I would have to use the cane in public as well. It was such an emotional experience for me. People stared at me. I could hear them whispering to each other and it hurt. I was no different than everybody else. I was a human being, but felt like I was a freak because of the reaction I...