Feeling lucky, sounds odd I know but I've been feeling so emotional, down,since diagnosis and then starting meds.

[saffron07]

Even though for more then a couple of years I've had this illness but undiagnosed until recently it's now that I realise the benefits we have around us; access to treatment, professional help and last but not least forums like this where people come together to support, share,motivate and care.

It's a roller coaster for me at present but I've found some solace when I'm in pain, can't sleep or just feeling low I can reach out in many directions and get support. A few times now I've just logged on to read people's story's, listen to what there experiencing and find commonality.

I'm learning slowly but surely how better to mange this thing, still early days for me but I have hope.

How fortunate am I, should humble us to those that have less I think xx

Every thing is relative I suppose.

[Hidden]

It is an emotionl roller coaster !,

Welcome, I see you are one of our select group of males, they are some great people on here , male and female, our aim to share experiences and help each other, stories dont always have to be Ra related though that is the sites main purpose, but sharing of life experiences, poetry, humour( sometimes black) and other concerns which impact on our health and wellbeing happens too as other events can affect our symptons/ illness.

[caggy]

Hi ya, it will take time, embrace the change and push for everything that will help you feel better, this site is great they have been a real help for me especially when I was feeling low. We all need one-another at different times, don't be ashamed of being in want.

I hope you feel better soon and treatments work for you well.

Carol

[cris1728]

Its great that you can see the positives in the negative, this disease takes us by surprise and then we have to learn to cope with it. You have done a brilliant job of coming to terms with things.I too have recently had problems and although I have not yet got a positive diagnosis (told probable RA should get diagnosis wed) it has been a rollercoaster. The timing of getting this has improved with new treatments and the prospects are much better for us. When you are feeling better as I am currently since the steroid jab 4 weeks ago it is easy to forget how debilitated you were before the improvement.

Good to hear you are upbeat and positive keep it up.

I was a nurse and have looked after many people with RA over the years and it was always so amazing to me how resilient and adaptable they were.They had come to terms with their condition and their personalities were always so cheerful open and honest.

take care crisxx

[watson3]

Hi Will,

Sorry to hear that you are going through the roller-coaster of emotions that this disease brings. We each and everyone of us find ways to cope, like Chris said. Mine is poetry, I use it as a means of expressing myself, but also hope that other may find comfort from reading it.

I was diagnosed 9 months ago. Though I am sure I have had it for many years (undiagnosed). Like you my job is very active and involves manual handling and emotional support of others.

I am sure your employer will give you time and support. It takes time to find drugs that work best for you as an individual.

There is light at the end of the tunnel, but I'd say be kind to your body when it demands to be rested.

Your young children will remember the quieter times spent with dad too.

Children just love having dad around,so fuss and be fussed. Love helps the healing process.

kind regards

Carole