2 kids, 34 years old and new to RA

October 9, 2005

My name is Abby. I am 34 an had a baby in January and was attacked

by RA in March. I had no idea what was happening to me and it was

so hard to take care of my new baby and 3 year old. It started in

my feet and then went to every joint. I could barely hold the baby

and nursing was excruciating. I am a stay at home mom and my

husband had no idea how bad I was. Nights were agonizing and I just

wandered the house waiting for morning and stretching. Finally in

June I went to a Dr. and by the end of July I had found out my

diagnosis and an amazing Dr. Within 24 hours and Prednisone and

pain pills I was able to pick up my baby almost pain free.

I am sad about my RA at such a young age and fear the pain I may

endure and the activities I may miss with my kids at such a young

age. However, my rheumatologist is a godsend. I am now on Arava and

Enberel I feel pretty much normal. I have an elbow that won't go

all the way straight but that is about it. They weaned me off of

Prednisone too fast and I had a flare up but since then I have

increased my dose and am slowly weaning again.

I feel completely alone in this and wonder about my future. Can I

still play tennis if I feel good or will it cause a flare? Can I

ride roller coasters or water ski or do I have to be careful and

just watch my kids do the fun stuff? I constantly worry about a

flare but I don't want to waste my time on it. Any advice? I have

been healthy all my life and now I am pumping so much medication in

to me it is just insane.

I am glad that I found this site. I went to a support group meeting

and peeked in the door and saw a bunch of senior citizens. No

offense, but I keep getting told that my age is the prime target for

RA but I still have not met anyone young and with kids. Thanks to

you all for the information. Abby

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