Hi- I’m Amanda. So nice to meet you. I’m 34. I have Rheumatoid Arthritis. Wow, that intro sounds like a 12 step program! But the reality of it is that some days I don’t feel great, other days I forget I have it. I was diagnosed about 4 years ago- to read about how that happened, go here and here and finally here. It’s been quite an experience- some people really let it define them and are content to accept limitations. I am not, much to the chagrin of my doctor. I like to be active- pre RA, I was really into running, boot camp classes, and some seriously dangerous high heels. I can still do most of these things with modification. I still love being active and I have been accused of being a girly girl with the mouth of Simon Cowell. I take that as a compliment.
I’ve been through a lot over the past few years and, until a year and a half ago, kept it pretty bottled up. I think it’s a Southern female thing- keep ignoring and it’ll go away. But it’s not going to go away and in an effort to meet other people who share my experiences and outlook, I decided to rip off the proverbial band-aid and put it all out there. I will not let RA change any part of my life : it’s been an interesting, funny, humbling, painful, and extremely emotional ride. Enjoy!
All Flared Up: An Arthritis Blog 