Introduction

[Guest guest]

Hello,

Glad to have bumped into this group.

I was diagnosed with RA a little over two years ago. Started out

with methotrexate and large dose of steriod . . . then went to

Humira and am now on Remicaid, methotrexate, anti depression,

flexeril and vitamins. Ongoing symptoms led me to a recent diagnosis

of fibromyalgia and the dry eyes and mouth is thought to be

Sjorgens. I'm 55 and had to leave work because I couldn't function

on any level at my job . . . filed for disability and of course have

been turned down and now at the appeal stage. Have cataracts due to

the steriods I took for so long.

I wish I could say I've had a remission but no such luck - I have

good days here and there and I cherish them.

I finally changed my rheumatologist to one closer to me and

more " pro-active " He tested me for the HLA-B20? gene and I have it -

he hasn't told me much yet beyond that I was positive so I've been

trying to learn what I can about it. If anyone knows what that

means, I would love to hear.

I feel worse for my husband and my family - I look the same so it's

hard for them to understand why I can't do all the things I used to

and why I'm so tired . . .

Anyway - I'm looking forward to learning and sharing with others.

Thanks so much!