I just feel it might be a good time to remind ourselves of a few considerations when communicating on our forum.
I've been on this forum for over five years now and when I first joined it would be fair to say that I had no idea what to expect.
During this time, I've discovered that this is a forum that aims to always provide a safe & reliable space to express anxieties, fears, concerns, uncertainties and probably most important of all.... cries for help.
In fact it's a platform to seek or offer help & support on all things PMR/GCA related.
It thankfully does not approve or allow comments that are disrespectful, critical or judgemental of others, and in any conversation where this may be evident, it is stopped immediately through the monitoring and scrutiny from the appropriate people.
Sometimes there are many other issues that people would dearly love to share and discuss here other than PMR/GCA & its associated topics. However, I'm so glad it's made clear that this isn't the platform for those other issues as it then allows for the optimum time to be available for discussing what this forum is truly for.
I've found a wealth of knowledge, support, ideas, advice, friendship and much more through this forum, and know that through continuing to show kindness and respect to each other, our forum will continue to nurture our PMR/GCA needs and continue to 'hold our hands' when we need it to.
Written by
Kendrew
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I totally agree and always try and play by the rules which are common sense and courtesy to me. This forum has helped me so much in the past when I didn't know where to turn for the right treatment and I like to think some of my posts and comments have helped others in turn. The Admin and regulars do a fantastic job, thank you to all involved
You are the BEST!! I used to sneak in my politics but was soundly beaten back and rightfully so!! A good reminder. thanks to all! (anyway you all know my politics I am sure!)
One thing I do get wound up about is when I read about somebody having a hard time because they have been misadvised by a doctor especially rheumatologists who really ought to know better. I find it hard to resist saying something critical and try and remember to say something positive instead, like maybe to ask for a second opinion. It's so tempting to say 'Your doctor is an idiot' but it's better to focus on how to educate them and give them the benefit of the doubt. My eyes have rolled a lot over the nearly 8 years I've been on here though .....
I think your reminder is also about keeping on topic, at least closely related to PMR and GCA etc and if an important topic arises in a thread to create a new Post for it, otherwise some posts get so long things get missed.
The PMR/health battle or my ability to resist a rant when I read something that makes me go 'ffs!'? The former is like being in a sinking ship but the orchestra is playing on. For the latter I need to keep applying laughter, a good soh and mindfulness .... and patience .... which is not without great effort on my part....😆
I've learned to tame my acute observations and this forum and contributions here have helped. I've learned patience and tolerance, especially of other peoples opinions. For me that's almost unheard of. That is the silver lining of this condition. Thanks Kendrew.
Well said, Kendrew! I would like to say that it makes me a little sad when people apologise for asking a ‘stupid’ question. Every question is relevant and deserves a sympathetic reply which is what is offered on this forum and what makes it such a brilliant resource.
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