Rheumatoid Arthritis Support Group
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic, inflammatory, multisystem, autoimmune disorder. It is a disabling and painful condition which can lead to substantial loss of mobility due to pain and joint destruction. The disease is also systemic in that it often also affects many extra-articular tissues throughout the body including the skin, blood vessels, heart, lungs, and...
Hi, I just found this site yesterday and am finding the topics and discussions helpful. I was diagnosed with RA on June 6th. As I told the doctor it was rather a mixed blessing, my first thought was "Oh Crap", followed quickly by, "Well at least I know the devil I am dealing with now". Based on everything I have read I think I am quite lucky to have an internist who really listens to me at a large medical center where he immediately sent me to a Rheumatologist who took so much time with me, and was also such a great listener. I do not have the RA factor, but apparently everything else told the tale. They started me on Prednisone, which I am now tapering off of, and will start me on Methotrexate, I believe in August when I go back. At least that was his initial thought.
About me, I am 55 and live in Northern MN. Married to a great guy, no kids but with a Golden Retriever and a Standard Poodle. My poodle is a registered therapy dog and we visit at our local nursing and assisted living facility weekly. She has been good therapy for me too, as training her and working with her has been a good reason to get up and out no matter how much I hurt.
I have appreciated reading through your comments. It has helped me realize that in many ways I am lucky and also that I am not crazy or alone!
About me, I am 55 and live in Northern MN. Married to a great guy, no kids but with a Golden Retriever and a Standard Poodle. My poodle is a registered therapy dog and we visit at our local nursing and assisted living facility weekly. She has been good therapy for me too, as training her and working with her has been a good reason to get up and out no matter how much I hurt.
I have appreciated reading through your comments. It has helped me realize that in many ways I am lucky and also that I am not crazy or alone!
Peace
Bluedogs2
Things will start looking up for you very soon...
xo Sun
I am glad you have been able to be diagnosed and access treatment quickly. I was diagnosed just before you, and this group has been a great source of info and support. Your dogs sound lovely- Golden's are my favourite breed!
Jacquelin
That is really cool about your dog being a therapy dog - that has to be so fulfilling - I'm glad you have that outlet. : )
I too am seronegative and have a wonderful rheumy. Sorry you needed to find us but this is an absolutely wonderful group. Look forward to getting to know you.
I'm sorry to hear about your diagnosis but you found a great place for information or a place to vent if you feel the need.
Warm regards,
TheWino
Coincidentally I was born & raised in Northern MN. We just returned from a visit to "the Range". I am 61 and dx'ed in April of this year. I am doing well on MTX. Glad you found this site.
Welcome to the forum! You will find a great deal of information here with very supportive people who are going through a similar situation. My story seems to parallel your story. I was diagnosed in March, started Predisone for 2 weeks then onto Methotrexate and am up to 20mg a week now. The MTX definitely helps, but my doc wants to be aggressive and I am now also on Enbrel. I am SO much better! Over the winter when I woke up I couldn't lift my arms to pull up the covers. Now I am playing tennis again!! I even put a ring on this week that hasn't come close to going on in 6 months. So there is hope!
I am also seronegative and was diagnosed by ultrasound. It sounds like your doc is on the right path.
Lastly, I have a maltese/poodle mix and he is the best comfort I could have! I am intrigued that your dog is a therapy dog. I was hoping to train my guy someday to be a therapy dog because he is so darn cute and cuddly he could cheer anyone up!
Good luck with your treatment and feel free to reach out to me if you have any questions.
Mara
Blaveck, I live on Lake of the Woods, but travel through "the range" on my way to Rochester to visit my Mom.
It is fun to hear about all the dog lovers! Those pups are good therapy.
Mara, do you think I will be able to play tennis once I start MTX? :) I am glad to hear you are doing well on your treatment, it gives me hope. I don't play tennis but do so want to be able to reel in a fish again!
I love all your names too! I will keep coming back, you are good people!