A woman copes with having rheumatoid arthritis. This is her story.
Some days it is all I can do to keep from crying or screaming out in pain and/or frustration.
I have rheumatoid arthritis (RA). I was diagnosed with it when I was 20; I'm now 30 and have already had half a dozen surgeries to replace frozen (or worn out) joints (hips, fingers, hands, elbows, shoulders) and am facing knee surgery this year. It's gotten so bad I can't walk more than a few feet without stopping or trying to keep from passing out because the pain is so bad.
I usually use a wheelchair whenever I am out in public, but at home, I walk with two crutches clamped to my arms. Sometimes I have fallen which does not help the pain at all. It's a miracle I haven't busted something, such as my hips or my face (or something else!).
Ten years of this, and I am still getting used to the fact that I will never be like I was. Prior to my getting sick and diagnosed, I was a happy, healthy kid; then the pains started and it took many trips to several different doctors (or hospitals) to come up with a proper diagnosis. I've also had to quit my job as a bank teller because I can't stand on my feet for more than 15 minutes at a time.
It's really a horrible way to live; I wouldn't wish it on anybody, not even my own worst enemy!
Well, I hate to run, but I am hurting; must mean that a.) I'm flaring again, or b.) the weather is going to change. I must lie down after I take something to try to alleviate the pain; it's about to drive me right out of my skull! Just keep me in your prayers or thoughts; I would greatly appreciate it! Thanks in advance!
Being an victim of RA myself, I can appreciate this piece, Karen. From experience however, there are two extremely important things to keep in mind other than praying. That's key, of course, and God does help those who help themselves. Keeping a positive attitude and remembering that a body in motion tends to stay in motion are the two I'm talking about here.
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