RA Athlete and Hope for your future

Thanks. Cannot wait to read your blog.

I read your blog & was quite impressed with it. I think it is fantastic that you did not let this disease define who you are. Any time a person gets a diagnosis of a disease that is life long, between the physical & emotional impact it can be difficult at best. I love to read success stories such as yours. It is encouraging for others to read. I do not have RA, but enough other health issues that are life long.

Keep up the good work, I think you are doing great.

Hi Priscilla,
I read a bit of your blog and some of the links. I will read more when I have time, but I really like the message and your perserverence. I especially like the link about what NOT to say to people suffering from RA, having heard them all in the 15 years since I contracted RA.
I am also on Enbril, after humira quit working several years back. While I don't consider myself an athlete, per se, I love my workouts and I am unhappy if I have a flare that keeps me from my routine.
I will turn 56 next week, and I am getting to the point that I am facing the real possibility of losing the athleticism I have been able to enjoy with the biologics. Also, a recent X-Ray found that I have a herniated disc in my back, and I have an MRI scheduled. My shoulder surgeries for torn ligaments are failing and I will need to replace one soon, and the other shoulder and knees eventually.
However, with a day of rest here and there, I am still able to run, jump and dance. So that is what I intend to do for as long as I can!
I'm glad you joined this forum and shared your blog with us. I'm looking forward to reading through your entire story.
I am also a Northern CA gal, and my Rheumatologist, Dr. Burnbaum, is out of San Franciso. Is he yours as well?
Hope to see more of you here Priscilla!
Beth

I am new to this. I am not exactly an athlete but up until about eight months ago I was pretty active for my age. Long story short, after a disastrous bout at the gym which resulted in significant soft tissue damage, I got the RA diagnosis just after Thanksgiving. Oh, and I had JUST started the MTX when I got shingles. My weight has dropped, mostly muscle loss. My activity level is pathetic. I am only 62 and not ready for this. I have a horse and I need to ride, but life lately is hard. I guess what I want to know is, Am I going to be normal again? Am I going to get my life back? Will the RA pain and swelling diminish to the point I can get the injuries repaired and be able to go into my 70s with strength and enthusiasm? I know there are a lot of people who are a lot worse off, but I need to know that this tunnel has a light at the end. Thanks.