When I was first diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis in 2005, I didn’t know anyone else with this condition. I was overwhelmed, a bit frightened and felt very alone. I thought RA was a disease that only affected the elderly and had no idea how I was going to cope with it.

Immediately I started researching and educating myself, not only wanting to find relief from the pain but to understand why this was happening to me. I found that age has nothing to do with it which made me think that there may be others, my age and station in life, going through the same thing.

No one in my little corner of the world, except a neighbor I see occasionally while I’m walking the dog, is dealing with Rheumatoid Arthritis pain. It wasn’t until I started getting involved in some forums that I found people in the same situation.  A whole new world opened up, there were people who really understood what it is like to live day to day with arthritis and Marfan’s Syndrome.

Living with chronic pain can make a person feel isolated, especially if they are the only one in their family and network of friends going through this. It’s comforting being able to ask questions, give advice and share what you’re going through. Somehow it seems to relieve some of the discomfort and it definitely helps with the stress.clip_image004

I personally have had a lot of positive experiences with being involved in a few forums, coming away with a satisfaction of being a part of a community I can fully participate in! When I’m feeling down, maybe tired, in pain, or even if I’m having an amazing day, it’s a place I can unload.

 

What support do you have in dealing with your arthritis pain? Good experiences or bad? Let me know!

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