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...

2,179 Members
16,355 Posts
0 Online
Muscles & Bones
/ Rheumatoid Arthritis Support Group

Looking for some encouragement

melissaenderle
melissaenderle
In just a few days I will be leaving to Korea for a new chapter in my life. I started my injections of Enbrel earlier this month and used my month and a half of summer vacation to see the needed doctors, spend time with family/friends, and relax. Now it will be back in the classroom. My previous position was more of a mentorship one, which gave me more flexibility. Not so with a this upcoming job. As I will have to be on my feet a lot and use my hands while teaching and doing prep work, I'm a bit anxious. Will I be able to physically tolerate the job? Will Enbrel kick in soon, bringing me less pain/swelling, and reduced fatigue? Will my other chronic conditions (including Fibro) come to the forefront as well? Memory and "fibro fog" is of particular concern. Will I be able to handle the rigours of a high-caliber school and do my fare share? Or will I be a disappointment? I know that I am a very hard worker, but will that be enough?
Encouragement and prayers are welcomed.
lynnedavidson3
lynnedavidson3
I am probably the wrong person to help with this because I stress about work more than I should. People don't notice our RA, they are just looking at the world from their point of view. You will do far better than you may think right now. If you feet are bothering you and you are in front of a class, pull up a stool and sit a bit. Your students won't think anything of it. While working at a deck, put your feet up on a box to elevate them. I do these things frequently, nobody suspects a thing!
Good luck!
deleted_user
deleted_user
My memory is very bad, and I am learning to write everything down. I cannot remember what I was going to do by the time I reach the kitchen, from my bedroom. So I advise, while at school, or doing anything related, write everything down
It is difficult to predict how things will go medically, but you sound like you will give it your best shot possible, and that will help. A little adrenalin isn't that bad to have.
Also, make sure you have comfortable shoes, and plan your slep and naps into a schedule. It is very hard to deal with RA and Fibro without a nap, so if at all possible, schedule one in daily.
You have my prayers, and best wishes!
lycesq
lycesq
I hope Embrel helps you, but there are good doctors in Korea if it doesn't. Good luck with the next chapter in your life!
melissaenderle
melissaenderle
Thanks Lyyne, Inkjoy, and lycsq for the advice and encouragement, I definitely will ask for a stool - Will help cut down on some standing. I plan on taking photos of the kids with their names (I see hundreds in a week). I will talk to the school nurse about finding a good local Dr who speaks English. Not knowing when the Enbrel will kick in or how I will react to the intense schedule (no opportunities for a nap at school), but will give it my best shot. Thanks for the prayers and well-wishes!