And the Journey Begins

I had a visit with my RA Doctor yesterday.  All seemed to go well.  He just basically explained what treatment we would start with.  For now, we will increase my Plaquenil to twice a day.  I did ask for some Motrin 400 for the occasional pains.  My Dr. says it appears that I have low disease activity at this time.  Took X-Rays of my hands.  As long as he doesn't see something unexpected then I will go back in two months for the Vectra DA test to score my disease.  Not really sure that all that does, but he said it is just a tool to use to treat my disease.  I have had my ups and downs dealing with the news.  So far the biggest struggle has been dealing with my emotions rather than any pain, stiffness or swelling.  I am thankful that I have not had those struggles yet, and I find that I have to keep running to God with my fears. But I know that is where I need to be anyway.  I know in my heart that this didn't happen to me for no reason.  God has a plan and purpose for me that includes this disease.  My help and my strength will come from God, and for that I am very thankful.  I find that writing my feelings down is very helpful.  I need to do a hand written journal so I can one day leave it to my kids.   I have my Mom's journals and they are a real source of comfort to me.