Hi...Newbie with RA

[Angel-lover]

http://members.shaw.ca/Sunburn_69/BA_Bear_Hello.jpg Thought I'd let you know, I've found this board very interesting. I guess I'm needing to find a place where I'll be "understood". Can't excercise to lose weight......but sure do need to lose. Have lost a few pounds, with about 30 to go. Kinda stuck right now.:(

Anyway, hope you all are doing well. Thanks for letting me visit. Oh, & I collect angels!!

[Jellybean419]

Hi there,

Wanted to welcome you to this weight loss group from one RA person to another. I have has this lovely illness for about 8 years. In the last year, I have able to do the Leslie Sansone's walking tapes. Funny, I have a hard time walking any distances but I can do the walking in place stuff. I am VERY grateful for that to be sure. You are unable to exerecise at all? I know it makes it a lot tougher to lose weight but you surely have been successful with a 30 lb loss.

Anyway, Welcome. I surely know how you feel.

Cheers
Rosanne

[anagram]

Understand only too well. have been in a nasty flare and reluctant to take prednisone as I don't want to put back on an oz of what I've struggled to lose. Have also been plateauing.
I exercise in warm water at a rehab center's wellness program. Have not been going very much lately and I guess that's part of the problem. Was there twice this week and it's helped.

I don't have fibromyalgia but post on that thread as the nice people there also understand.

If we'd get some nice weather that would help too. Just heard on the weather report we've had rain16 of the last 20 days. It feels like 20 of 20.

To better, leaner days!

[Angel-lover]

http://www.members.aol.com/teejaw/smilies/Hello.gif & thanks for the welcome Jellybean & Anagram. Yes, this is a great illness to have, isn't it?!http://www.emotipad.com/emoticons/Sigh.gif & part of the problem, is like my dr says, most people don't understand it IS a disease. When I told friends & family, they took it as they did my osterarthritis (which is bad, from car accident). It has me on disability because of my back.

I've never come across anything so scarey & hard to cope with as this. My RA only started about 1 yr ago, but advanced very rapidly. I started out on Azulphiside, then Methotrexate(type of chemo I take at home), now I'm on Methotrexate & Remicade. I go for infusions that take about 2 hours. It really helps, but if you don't have good ins or medicare(which I have), it's impossible to get. Each treatment is over $2,000. I'm so glad my medicare covered it. To me, it's a miracle drug. Only thing, I'm very sensitive to it, so I have to have Benadryl, Zertec, etc., the day of treatment. So, I sleep the day away & out of it kinda the next day. But, afterwards, soooo much better. Don't know either of your situations, but it's a thought for you, both.

I haven't lost 30 lbs.....that's how much I still WANT to lose.lol I've lost 16 lbs since the end of April. That isn't so bad, but I've come to a standstill. No, I haven't found any kind of exercise that I can do. Mostly because of my back problems.

Didn't mean to write a book.......sorry. Just wanted to let you know a little about me. Feel like I found a place to encourage & be encouraged.:)

[anagram]

I agree on the "understanding" thing. Most people figure "take an aspirin" or will say "oh, my knee hurts once in a while too".

My flare seems worse this morning - at first it seemed better but I'm still not up and at 'em. I've had the devil for quite a while. At first, they said it didn't matter because they treated both kinds of A. the same. Then about 8/9 years ago, I was put on Plaquenil and apparently I'm one of the people it works/worked for. I have been off it for 15 months now. Looks like I might be going back on. So as RA goes, I don't think mine's been particularly aggressive but nonetheless changed my life dramatically.

I also have OA - in fact, have had two knees replaced because of it. Also have arthritis in spine but that's also been good lately. Am taking Mobic for inflammation (doubled dose since last week) and take the supplement MSM which I've found helpful.

Am certainly wishing today I had called dr. yesterday for the "prednisone" rescue he offered me last week. Won't call him over the weekend though. Yesterday all seemed to be getting better. I think now it's flared up enough that just good weather won't help enough.

I've been able to lose 40 pounds in the past year while I was in only minimal discomfort but still have lots more than 30 to go.

I'm on Medicare as well - since last September.

I do have an Arthritis Foundation exercise tape which was helpful for a good while early on. Can no longer do the floor exercises in that one but I understand there is another one for people with even more restrictions. I can't do a lot of heavy exercising either and even in the water, I wouldn't say I overdo. I mostly like to hang in the deep water as it has helped my back so very much. But I do move my legs a lot which helps my lymphedema and I do stretching (very moderately) and arm curls and light stuff like that at home.

Anyway, we're expecting rain again today but should be better after that (hot and humid, if that's better). I hope you have a good, delightful weekend and can maintain the great loss you've had. That's a lot for a short time.

[Angel-lover]

http://home.att.net/~scorh2/Animation3g.gif Sounds like you've had a rough 8 or 9 years. I'm sorry. My back problems (OA)are from car accident in '83. Been on disability since. I took those cordnizone shots in my back quite a bit & man, they shoot the weight on! I've finally settle on Lodine & manage with it. I'm also on Depakote, which puts weight on. Can't win, for losing, can we?!:dizzy:

Anyway, like I said earlier, the RA has really thrown me. I didn't know it could get so bad so fast! I have very good doctors, though, thank the Lord for that. They all cooperate with each other & take time to listen to me.

I wish I had a place to exercise in water. I believe I could do that. I DO have a jacuzzi tub, that helps on my worse days.;)

It's helped me, to talk to someone else, who really understands. Thank you so much. I hope you have a great weekend, & feel well.

[Jellybean419]

Hi all,

Nice to hear from you two who really understand. I relly did have a very rough time when I was diagnosed . As bad as you feel one day you can feel twice as bad the next. I take plaquinil and methotrexate, 4mg of prednisone and motrin 800mg several times a day. My pain is more stiffness these days as opposed to sharp pain. My doctor wants me to try Remicade but I have been such a chicken about it. You are incredibly brave to take the infusion and take all that stuff so you will not have a reaction. I am surprised you only sleep ONE day away! I am so glad it helps you, it feels like a miracle when something actually helps.

I had my hip replaced a few years ago and that really changed my life. I have been able to exercise with the walking tapes in the last year because of the hip replacement. I guess that joint was something medicine was not going to help..:) I have lost 25lbs so far and it is coming off a lot faster when I can do the exercises. I want to lose at least 35 more.

I am so sorry about your flare, Anagram! You have been lucky to be controlled with plaquinel. Call your doctor and get back on it before it gets any worse.


Hope you both have a great weekend and your pains are few.

Cheers
Rosanne

[Angel-lover]

http://home.att.net/~scorh3/Sunbonnet01a2.gif Jellybean....hang in there. It's rough, but we have to keep going. I decided whatever it took, I would. That's why I went on Remicade. I'm not at all brave. I stay scared......there's a lot of dangers to this drug. My dr keeps a very close eye on me, though, & I trust him. My stiffness had gotten to the point where I had to hold on to the walls, etc., to walk around the house. When you get desperate enough, you'll try just about anything.

I was on Motrin for several years for OA for my back.....now I take Lodine. Motrin was still doing well, just dr said I needed a change, because it could tend to aggravate stomach. I haven't heard of other medication you said you are on. How are you taking Methotrexate? I put mine in a needle & shoot it into orange juice to drink it. Dr said I could take shot, or drink it. I decided the orange juice was getting this needle. LOL I started out with the pill form, but it's a lot more expensive & I'm on several expensive meds, & no coverage for them.

You've had a good weight loss. That will help a lot. That's one reason I'm trying to lose. I'm not gonna say that's the only reason, because it's not true. One thing's for sure though, it does help with all physical problems.

Thanks for replying. You two have made my day just a little better.;)

[Holli's Human]

Hi girls,

Just browsing around and discovered your posts. I have OA in my wrists and hands, as well as carpul tunnel and boy has it changed my life. I was just diagnosed with both a few months ago, but I feel certain I have been suffering from them for a couple of years. I just began seeing a rhematologist a couple of months ago and she did RA tests, but so far not that, although she did more blood work today to check again. Boy do my arms hurt. They stuck my 6 times to get 5 vials of blood for various tests. Lucky me...I have small veins. I really hate that is the only thing small on me! lol

Interesting reading about the different meds. I took vioxx for a couple of years, but quit working. I then took mobic, this week she switched me to bextra. Tried celebrex but caused me severe stomach pain. Lodine never worked for me.

Well, that's enough for tonight...my hands are swelling up and my needle pricks hurt. Ouch! I'm going to take my bextra and acetaminaphin (for the pin pricks).

Thanks for letting me join you. It does feel good to connect to people who understand.

Have a great weekend!

Debbie

[Angel-lover]

http://members.shaw.ca/Sunburn_69/welcomeDoor.gif Hi Debbie.....glad you joined us! Hope you'll post often...I come in every day. Don't have a lot to do. Also, get a lot of encouragement!

Sorry about your pain. I know how that is! Of course, all of us here know. I have problems with my hands due to RA, mostly can't seem to make my hands work right. They don't hurt though, like most of my body does. I know it must be very difficult trying to do things with pain in your hands & wrists. Hope you're able to rest tonight. I also hope they don't find RA. My OA is bad...but the RA has caused so much more problems. My nurse says I have the tiniest veins she has ever seen. LOL When I took my last Remicade treatment, they stuck me 7 times! The veins kept blowing, because the cathedar was bigger than my veins! She wants me to have a port put in....but I really don't want that, if I can help it. I guess it will really depend on how the next few treatments go. I'm not afraid of needles, but 7 times......sheesh!!

Hope you come & post often.....I was beginning to believe I was alone here! LOL Take care of yourself.http://home.att.net/~scorh3/Angel2l.gif

[anagram]

Hi, all. Flare has lessened but not yet all gone. Weather, extra inflammatory helped. Then, I finally remembered to double my supplement of MSM. This has been really helpful to me and seems to have done the trick again though I still have some residual swelling (but then I usually do). Felt good enough to play with granddaughters while we were away at DDs this weekend. I always say they're really my best medicine.

[Holli's Human]

Hello girls,

Thanks for the nice welcome, angel lover. My arms are better today, but I have kinda laid low. Wow, 7 needle sticks. I don't feel so bad now. I meant to mention when I was writing last night that my doc has been talking to me on several visits about adding plaquenil but I am concerned about the eye thing. She said you have to have your eyes checked every 6 months. So, anyone taking it and finding it worth it? Also, I'm a little new to all of this, but what is MSM? What does it do? Anyone an advocate of coral calcium and gulcosimine...which I have been hearing about?

Thanks for the info and support!

[Angel-lover]

http://home.att.net/~scorh2/Card32.jpgGood morning Anagram & Debbie. So glad to hear from you.

Anagram....I'm wondering what MSM is also. Anyway, I'm really glad it helped you. Do you get these flare-ups very often? You may have already said, but I'm too lazy to go back & read.LOL
I agree, the best medicine is the grandchildren! Of course, I'm glad they have parents to take care of them. I have 11 & they are all beautiful (of course) & well behaved, most of the time. Of course, they do have their spells.http://home.att.net/~scorh/Sign01r.gif

Debbie....I'm glad you are better. Sometimes I have to lay low, also...sometimes just plain "hide out" from the world. When I'm really bad, I come home & don't even answer the phone, unless it's an emergency. I let my answer machine screen my calls. As I said before, a lot of people don't realize how bad RA is. So, I just have to make sure I take care of myself, so I don't get worse.

I've heard of the Plaquil, but don't know of anyone that uses it. My pastor's wife's dr wanted to put her on it. She was too afraid because of the eye thing, too. He tried to reassure her that hardly ever happened. She is on Glucosomine, though, & says it helps her. It's not a miracle drug, but it does help. The Coral Calcium, I don't know anything about...sorry.

When I was reading of the pain in your hands & arms, I remembered something. I volunteer at a local christian television station, & one of the programmers sells a therapy lotion for arthritis. He has had to bring it to the station by several cases at a time! Everyone that comes in & trys it says it's great! They say when they are hurting (knee, hands, etc.)they can massage it on & get relief. I haven't tried it yet.....keep meaning to. I will find out the name of it this week & let you know. It's 2 bottles(each different) & only $5.00! Gotta be worth trying. It might help you, also...Anagram. You know, if it just gave you relief enough to rest at night, it would help. I hear compliments all day on it.....I'm crazy for not trying it yet. By the time I go home in the evening, though, I'm usually so tired (& hurting), I don't think of it. I'm there only 3 days a week for a few hours. It helps me to get out of the house.

I really like your dog & cat...here's you a little mouse to go with them.http://home.att.net/~scorh/Animation1r.gif

[anagram]

Hi and welcome, Holly. The MSM is a supplement easily available. I started it after hearing James Coburn talk about how it helped him (on tv). I continued taking my meds and did talk to dr. about it.

I have been on Plaquenil. Started on it about 8 years ago. I've currently been off it for 15 months and was off it once before for a year or so. I did have a time when they were concerned about my eyes but it turned out to be something different. I'm also concerned about that because I think it can happen even years after you're off it. Both my dr. and eye dr. say they don't know anyone it's affected that way but I do. I have a friend who has lost her sight and she'd never talk much about it or how it happened. But a couple of years back she told me it was from medicine she took for RA years ago. She says it worked, she didn't have RA after that and the sight loss didn't show up for quite some time after that (although it was there 20 odd years ago when I first met her). She doesn't remember if it was Plaquenil or not. Dr. tells me they used to give it in much higher doses. Yes I had to get eyes checked every six months and they did an extra test (which of course my insurance didn't pay for - might now that I'm on medicare).

Anyway last bloodwork in March showed no inflammation, SED rate down, etc. so I think the Plaquenil has helped as well as the MSM. It does not help everyone so I was lucky there I guess. Last month when I saw Dr. he said even though I felt rotten, there was very little swelling so he just told me to double the Mobic. I've tried or been on so many ANSAIDs over the years. Some helped, some didn't. I just get so tired of the fatigue. I understand not everybody gets that part and they did last year put me on thyroid med. That helped for a while but not enough.

Sometimes I think the best thing would be a few stiff drinks but I almost never have any alcohol because of the meds.

I only have two grandchildren. Both girls, one's 7 and the other will be 3 in August. I would like to have more but it doesn't look like that's happening so I'll just be grateful for these two.
well, off to enjoy the evening (or what's left of it) on the patio.

[Holli's Human]

Hi all,

I was just peeking in for a bit to read a little. My hands have really hurt me this week..i've had a lot to do. They hurt right now, so I will have to write more later. Just wanted to say hi and thanks for the info. I'll come back soon. Hope yall are having a good week :)

[Angel-lover]

http://members.shaw.ca/Sunburn_69/hello.gif Everyone! Hope all are having a good evening. Getting pretty late here & about ready to call it a day.http://www.emotipad.com/emoticons/Zzzz.gif

Sorry you are having so much pain, Holli, I know it must be terrible. Hope you are better real soon. That lotion I told about is only sold here, because there is only a short supply of it. I tried it though, & it's not that great for me.

I'm not feeling very well, either. I can tell the Remicade is wearing off & my next treatment isn't till next Tuesday. I'll make it, somehow.

Anagram...I know what you mean about fatigue. RA has really caused it for me. Before the Remicade treatments, I'd have times I couldn't even sit up. That's one reason I know it's wearing off now....getting that way.

It really helps to come here & talk about it. I feel like if I talk to people around me, they get tired of hearing it. It's probably my imagination....but that's how I feel. At least here, we all understand.

http://www.emotipad.com/emoticons/Yawn.gif Well, I guess I've groaned enough tonight. Have a good evening.

[Angel-lover]

http://fla.fg-a.com/usaCa.gif WANT TO WISH ALL A HAPPY JULY 4TH!!!! http://image.fg-a.com/Firew14a.gif http://www.members.aol.com/teejaw/smilies/Fireworks2.gifhttp://www.members.aol.com/teejaw/smilies/Fireworks2.gifhttp://image.fg-a.com/Firew14a.gifhttp://www.members.aol.com/teejaw/smilies/Fireworks2.gifhttp://www.members.aol.com/teejaw/smilies/Fireworks2.gifhttp://image.fg-a.com/Firew14a.gifhttp://image.fg-a.com/Firew14a.gifhttp://www.members.aol.com/teejaw/smilies/Fireworks2.gif

[anagram]

Had another good workout at the pool today. Wighed in - lost about 2.2 pounds over the last five weeks. It's down - I'll take it but would have liked to do a bit better. Maybe the next five weeks.

Doing ok but always feel like I'm trying to push my way through a heavy fog of some kind. But days are better than a couple of weeks ago. Hoping being more regular at the pool will soothe aches and pains, etc.

Hope y'all have a gr eat weekend.

[Angel-lover]

http://www.dewa.com/animated/new/1annou~1.gif 2.2 lbs GONE!!!! YAY!!!! Great work!! May not seems like a lot, But they add up! The health we are all in.....I think we're doing pretty good. There's a lot of people in good health that don't stay on their diet & succeed as well as we all are! I lost 2 more lbs this week. That's a total of 20 lbs since April 23rd. Proud as punch! Yes, it's going slow....but it's going.;)

I'm so sorry you're still feeling so bad. I can feel it in your post. Just hang in there, & don't let it get the best of you. Hope you stop hurting so bad. http://home.att.net/~scorh2/Animation2h.gif

[anagram]

I think I'm going to go out on a limb and declare my recent flare over. I don't want to go to bed tonight as I don't want the "feeling good" to end. When the pain/fog abate, it feels almost like I've taken some kind of "upper". But as a fellow sufferer once said, "lack of pain can do that". I didn't even seem to mind the storms that came through tonight.

Had a great Saturday (family picnic) and my daughter and her family were here until today. The two little "angels" are always good medicine for me. The fact that I have already recovered from the excitement and energy and the cleanup after they leave just shows I'm having an unbelievably good evening. Hope it sticks around long enough for me to get some other things done. But if not, at least I have this evening.

[Angel-lover]

Anagram.........So happy you are feeling better!!http://www.click-smilies.de/sammlung/sehrgrosse/large-smiley-032.gif Hope it lasts!!!

I'm not doing so great...but I get a Remicade treatment tomorrow. Will sleep most of the day.http://www.emotipad.com/emoticons/Zzzz.gif Then be kinda "out of it" for a couple of days......maybe after that, though.:)

Hope all have a good day. I am soooo glad you are better, Anagram.http://e4u.consoleradar.com/fingers/fing10.gif

[Khewes]

Oh my goodness, I feel like I have found my HOME!
I have been suffering, and we do suffer, right people?...from RA since 1998. I'm 35, married, with two girls. 12 and 14.
I have struggled with my weight almost my whole adult life, but have really packed on the pounds since becoming sick. I am currently following the Atkins plan, and when I am being really religious, find that my symptoms are better. When I slip up and let the "white stuff" back in, ouch.
I administer an Atkins forum, and as I sit back and watch everyone's success and follow their workout journals it depresses the heck out of me that to even get out of bed in the morning, I need a walker.
I'm currently debating having a triple arthrodesis done to my left foot. The thought of the long recovery is scary, but the thought of living like this forever is scarier.
I take 400 mg Celebrex every day (sometimes I cheat and take an extra just because I have to) and am waiting to start the injectable Methotrexate. I took the oral, and just... yuck. So she switched me to the injectable, and the minute she wrote the scrip, I developed strep throat. So I must wait. I'm also awaiting approval on Enbrel. I've taken it before, with great success and I'm very excited to begin again.
I have about 100 pounds to lose, and without exercise, man it's hard.
:(
I'm glad to have found people who UNDERSTAND what it's like to be sick like this and struggle with their weight on top of it all.

(((hugs)))

Kim

[Angel-lover]

Hi Khewes....Welcome to the thread! Thanks so much for posting. I didn't think anyone would ever come here again. Sure hope the others notice & come on in.

So sorry you have problems with RA. It's especially sad when someone as young as you have to cope with it. RA doesn't discriminate, does it? I'm 54, grandmother of 11...but, trying my best not to age!! :lol: I try to stay as active as I can. Volunteering at a Christian TV station 3 days a week helps to get me out of the house. They're friends & know my problems. I can rest anytime. Also, try to sing there, some. I did go to nursing homes to visit & sing, but, got to be too much for me. But, most of the people that I song to, now watch me on TV & call in. It still helps them, like that. Also, helps me.

I still take Remicade treatments...now at 5 weeks apart & increased dosage. (almost $3,000.00 per treatment) Still have medicare to cover it. I take the oral Methotrexate....yes, ugghhh! I'm really stiff in the morning & have to hold on to things close by until I loosen up. I know a walker is in the future.

It helps to have someone come here that knows first hand what it's about, although I wish you didn't have it. Hang in there....keep fighting it. About the weightloss....I've never tried Atkins, but heard it's good. I just went by my own diet....fruits mostly until supper. Then ate regular only in a saucer. Then had fat-free snacks for cravings. Drink lots of water! That helps a lot. I wish you luck with it. Any time you need to talk about your weightloss, or just "vent" come on in. I'll do the same. I finally lost my weight, & now maintaining. That's not easy either....only the Methotrexate makes lots of foods taste bad. :dizzy: I have every side effect....I reckon! Lucky me! :(

I'm going to include a couple of pics so you can put a face to a name. Hope you do the same. The first pic I was playing around. Went out with daughter who made me start wearing high risers...we had fun. When I got back, I took a pic. Gotta admit...I like them...they're comfortable.The second pic is just before starting diet (184 lbs...size tight 14) I wouldn't take a full pic. Third pic is after weightloss (140 lbs...size 8-10) Have a "good" day.http://www.countryclipart.com/BearsSet/countryteddiefamilyx.gif

[Khewes]

Thanks for the warm welcome. I did notice it seemed a little quiet in this forum, and thought I'd show up and shake things up a bit.
:)

It does help to know that there are some people who truly understand how hard it is to do much of anything, let alone exercise.

But, I'm not going down without a fight, you know? Called my orthopedist today and made an appointment. Still leery of surgery,but there has to be some sort of orthotic I can get so I can keep on truckin every day.

;)

Your photos are lovely. Now off to figger this thingy out so I can post one of me......

[Khewes]

Oky doky, don't laugh too hard..I have millions of pictures of my kids, my husband, my cat, my dog... but not too many of moi.

This is a photo I took when we were funnning around one day in another forum I administer at. We were doing a "woman in the mirror" type thingy, so I took a piccy of me in the mirror.
:D http://mywebpages.comcast.net/khewes/mirror2.jpg

[Angel-lover]

Hi.....Great pic!! Well, I guess that's one way to do it! ;) You look pretty...needed the hood down to tell more. :D I finally broke down & bought a Kodak digital cameral with a self-timer. It's a lot easier to take pics of yourself! I have so much fun with it.

Just exactly what kind of surgery would it be? I've never heard of anything like that before for RA. My feet hurt a lot. When the dr examined me during my treatment last week, he squeezed my right foot, & I almost jumped up. He seemed surprised I was that touchy with it. I've limped since then. I did break that foot several years ago, though. After breaking a foot, I've heard it will always be toucheous. True with me.

Well, I'm tired. Worked today. Need to go post in a couple more threads, so I'll talk to you later. Hey, find some more pics! Hope you rest well. http://www.eakles.com/29farmanimated.gif

[RAR]

HI! everyone was reading your posts and hope to join I have oa of the knees have to get a totalhave it in my wrists and hands so know some of the feelings that you guys go thru been tested for ra last year was neg but still have the achness hope tht at everyone has a betterday today Rita

[Angel-lover]

Hi Rita...http://www.countryclipart.com/FrogSet/frogpondwelcome3.gifOf course, you may join!!
So sorry for your pain. What meds are you on? How long have you had OA? I've had OA in my back since '83 after being in a car wreck. It stopped my working 2 yrs later, after 18 years. I was put on SS Disability when I was 36. It's very hard to get on SS Disability, so to get it at such an early age scared me. It showed how bad my back was! Due to muscle spasms, I had 3 disks replaced in my neck a few yrs ago. Been on several different meds, including steroids. I'm now on Lodine for my back....& sure it's other places now, as I've aged. It helps to endure the pain. Drs say it's hard to say which pain is OA, & which is RA in some places, other than Remicade will only help the RA.

As I said...my hands aren't too bad. Large knuckles & started out with fingers aching & thobbing continually. That's what caused my dr to send me to a Rheumatologist. I have very good drs. My Neurologist is the best, so is my Rheumatologist, plus my general DR. They work well with each other.

Hope you can find something to help your hands, also. When will you get the knee replacement surgery? Keep us informed....& yes, please join us. Pain is pain...& we understand it. Just come "vent" if you need to. Think I just did....without meaning to! :dizzy: http://www.countryclipart.com/ILoveCntrySet/friendshiphartstrings.gif

[Khewes]

Angel... I have lost the joint in the foot called the sub-talar joint. It's the joint that holds all the bones of the hindfoot together. They basically go in there with a whole bunch of sharp things, dig that joint out, drill a big giant hole and put it back together with a whole bunch of screws and staples and some "donor bone" which I shudder to think of where THAT comes from.
It's a huge surgery with a long recovery, so I'm a little hesitant. I think I'll try some orthotics again before I go that route.

Rita, welcome aboard.
:)

[Angel-lover]

Hi Kim. Oh my...sounds like a very bad surgery you're facing! I'm so sorry. I really understand the need for the walker. Sounds like you also have OA...which destroys bone. I wouldn't worry about the donor bone.
I've had 3 disk replacements in my neck, with a plate & donor bone. I thought about it this way. We know they come from people who donated their body for the sake of helping others...so they must have been very kind & compassionate people. I feel priviledged to accept their donation.
The weather here has been beautiful this week. http://www.eakles.com/102SUN3.gif A welcome change from last week. http://media.euniverse.com/funpages/cms_content/1442/stormcloud.gifMakes the bones & joints feel better. :D
I've got to get ready for work....hope you & Rita have a great day! http://www.emotipad.com/newemoticons/Party2.gif

[RAR]

HI! Everyone Angel thanks for the warm welcome havent posted for a couple of days do to working when I work a 12 hr all I do is sleep on my day off Angel have had OA since I been 50 just turned 56 have to have a total knee just scared since I work in a hospital see a lot so putting it off as long as possible been on all the bextra,vioxx,celebrax,cortozine shots even had the new shots series so right now just taking aleeve as I hate taking pills well today I feel great no limping of course I am off from work so going to exercise on my bike and maybe get some crocheting done so better get started so welcome all the newbies and everyone have a great Sunday Rita

[Angel-lover]

Hi everyone.
Busy weekend. Sunday & Monday are always busy for me...so I'm usually slow posting.

Was at TV station Saturday night singing until almost 11pm. Had a great time. Sunday...had to leave my church early to go sing at a birthday party at another church. Tonight I have my program at the tV station, so won't get home tile after 7pm. :dizzy: Enjoyable....but, tiring!

Rita...sorry you're facing the surgery. With you working at a hospital, I guess you know what to expect, & that makes you dread it even more. I've been through a lot of surgeries...so just quinch at the thought! Haven't had knee surgery, though. So far, they don't bother me much, unless I walk a lot. Usually my feet bothers me too much to give the knees time to complain! RA makes walking difficult. Feet go to hurting & even cramping. I hope you get some relief. Have you seen the type of surgery that Khewes is going to have? If so, maybe there is something good you know about it to encourage her. Hope you have a good day.

Rita...hope you feel well today. Let us hear from you.

Gotta go get ready for work. Take care! http://www.countryclipart.com/ApplesSet/countrytothecore.gif

[Khewes]

Good afternoon everyone. Hope everyone is having a good and pain free day.
:)

Angel, I know all too well the surgery I'm facing. I used to work in a children's hospital as an x ray tech before I had to leave that job and take another more sedentary job. I worked predominantly in the operating room and have seen first hand the surgery and the outcome. That's why I'm a weeeeee bit hesitant. I have made an appointment with the orthopedist though to talk about some orthotics, or something to help me with my left foot. I'm walking on the outside of it and not feeling too awfully stable.

Have a great week everyone!!

Kim

[RAR]

HI! Angel, and kim hope you both are having a free pain daytoday Kim I sure know how it is with foot problems been there have all kinds of supports and it does help so hopeing that you will find some relief!!!!!!!!!!!!well got to get ready for work so have a great Monday Rita

[Angel-lover]

Hello ladies.....
Been a long day. I felt pretty good, though. The Remicade is kicking in pretty good now. It's a good thing, too, cause the rain is coming for several days, according to weather folks. Makes me hurt all over! http://www.harrythecat.com/graphics/b/cloud1.gif

Sorry, Kim. I was trying to be encouraging. I guess you know more than anyone...first hand. Sure hope you can find some relief! You are so young to be going through so much. I hope your children are understanding & help you whenever they can.
My children seem to understand sometimes when they were young. But, could tell they were disappointed at times. My son never knew me when I was healthy, though, as the girls did. He was only 2 yrs old when I had my care wreck. So, I missed a lot of his ball games, etc...just couldn't sit there too long. I did go sometimes, though.

Rita...I understand you have to get your rest. Just post whenever you can. take care of yourself.

Hope you both have a good Tuesday. My day off, other than a 1 hr community program I help with at the station from 4-5pm. Talk to you tomorrow. Anyone else with RA, or OA ....come on in & join us! http://www.harrythecat.com/graphics/b/xray1.gif

[RAR]

HI! Angel couldnt sleep so thought I would do some browsing saw that you posted glad the med is helpingwell in Ohio dont know if we will get snow or rain but starting to ache which usually happens with weather change well I guess I was lucky in life because nothing hit me until late in life in 50I fell a part LOL I try not to complain in fwront of the kids as they have their own problems I guess that is what hubbys are forwell hope the meds kick in if you get that rain Rita

[Khewes]

Oh Angel, don't be sorry. I know you were trying to be encouraging.
I'm glad your Remicade is kicking in. I'm still awaiting approval for my Enbrel. I was taking it before and did well, but our insurance changed, yadda yadda yadda. Pains in the butt they are.
I'm taking injectable Methotrexate now, but I've also dived very strictly back into Atkins and cut out all the "white stuff"
My joints seem to be doing better, all but that pesky foot. Not much gonna happen there until I get it taken care of, but my other joints feel pretty good.
Oh, and we bought a water bed this weekend. I'm not sure which thing, or the combination of all things, but whatever it is, I'm doing pretty good.

My kids do understand. They're older and they do help me an awful lot. But there's lots of times I just suck up the pain and take them to the mall, etc. You have to, you know?

Have a wonderful pain free day everyone.

[RAR]

HI! Kim,Angel,well Ohio did get some snow when I woke up this morinand not as aching as much yes Kim those insurance companies got us where they want us so hopeing you get approved soonwell off to work so have a great Wednesday and as Kim says pain free Rita

[Angel-lover]

Hi girls....hope all is well. Well, as well as can be. Cold rain, here. You know what that means for bones, joints, etc.! Suppose to go to hair appt tomorrow. I'm always the first customer, to get it over with & come home to enjoy my day off. I think I'll stay in, though. It's so bad outside. Although I do dread washing & fixing my own hair this week. Strange how things change. Before I started going...didn't want anyone to do anything to my hair but me! Now, I don't want to mess with it! :lol: Think that's called OA (OLD AGE!! :D ).

Kim...hope you get your ins approval soon. I had to wait for mine for Remicade. It's almost $3,000 a treatment! I keep expecting the medicare to start complaining about it. Don't know what I'd do, if they stopped paying. I panic, just to start feeling it wearing off! :o Yes, I know what it is to go with the pain to be with your kids. My daughters are 35 (twins) & 30, but, I still call them sometimes & suggest we go eat & shop awhile. I try to treat them to a day out. Act like I'm fine. Of course, they know better...but, we DO enjoy.

Hello Rita...I know that winter weather is rough in Ohio. I lived in Detroit, MI for ten years while growing up. Very rough winters. Only time I spent any time in Ohio....I was around 10 yrs old. We were coming to Alabama to visit relatives, & hit a very bad snow storm. Ice & snow was terrible. There was trucks, & cars stuck on the highways over night, with people sleeping in their cars. Including us!! :lol: Thought I would freeze to death! :o

Well....gonna go for now. Take care of yourselves. I have tomorrow off, if no problems at the station. Maybe I'll get a chance to post again. http://www.amroriginals.com/freebies/sigs/bear_heart.gif

[Khewes]

Yay!!!! Got my approval letter in the mail today. Now I just have to mail the script and wait for relief via Federal Express!!!


Have a great and pain free day.


Kim

[Angel-lover]

http://www.eakles.com/102happyturningsign.gifThat's great, Kim!! I'm sooo happy for you! Gotta go for now....everyone have a good day!

[RAR]

Kim happy for you that is great news!!!!!!!!!!!!! hope everyone else is having a great day did go walking last nite really hurt but kep it up so it is a great accomplishment for me even though I ached todayand knee is really swollen more as it is always swollen so have a have a great sunday ohio is sun shine today and I have to work 12 hrs ugh!!!!!!!! Rita

[Angel-lover]

Good morning, ladies. It's raining today, so you know what that means. Aches, & pains. Maybe it won't be too bad, though.

Kim, I'm so happy the insurance came through for you! :) Hope it doesn't take long for it to get started.

Rita, those long work days will be rough on you, I know. Try to take all the rest breaks you can. Mondays are long for me. I work at the station...then stay around there waiting for time for my program. Don't get home until close to 7 pm. I enjoy it...but, get so tired.

I had a rough day Saturday. I had been very stressed for a couple of days. (our son & daughter-in-law keeps us that way!) So by Saturday, I was feeling terrible. That evening fatigue hit me really hard. I couldn't do anything. I'm better now...but, stress sure isn't good for RA.

Well, need to go...you ladies take care & have a good Monday. http://www.emotipad.com/newemoticons/I-Am-Smiling.gif

[RAR]

HI! everyone havent posted for a couple of days do to working just wanted to wish everyone a happy day pain free Angel I lived in Dundee Mich for a couple of years when I first got married had to move back to Ohio got home sick for them hillsLOL Rita

[Angel-lover]

Hi Kim & Rita...
Hope you're having a good day. It's beautiful weather today. Suppose to turn cold tonight, though. Spring is officially the 20th, though! I'm getting so anxious for the warm weather.

I don't have anything new to tell. Did want to check in, though. Keep in touch. Good to hear from you Rita. Kim....last we heard...your insurance came through! Tell us more. :)

Have a great evening.http://www.amroriginals.com/freebies/blinkies/kidrack.gif

[RAR]

HI! Angel,Kim,just wanted to check in hopeing that everyone is having a great thursday well Ohio weather is chilly right now we are supposed to get some snow this weekend of course I am offso just might take hubby to the movies on the passes that I won from the hospital for not missing any work now if I could be that strict about loosing weight and stick with it I would be in good shape !!!!!!!!! am loosing about a pound a week so I should be happy and that is for not eating sweets which is really hard for me my son went on the south beach diet and so far he is doing good he sure doesnt take the dertimintion from me LOLwell got to getbusy just had my morning coffee so have a great day and may you be pain free today Rita

[Angel-lover]

http://www.emotipad.com/newemoticons/Hi.gifRita & Kim.

Rita...a pound a week is great!!! :dance: That's how I lost my weight...1-2 lbs a week. Keep it up, girl! ;)

We went to see the movie "Passions of the Christ" last Sunday night. Our church rented out the cinema. It's an awesome movie. Have either of you seen it, yet?

I've had lots of trouble with my sinuses & tonsils the last two days. It's really unusual for me to have any problems outside of my OA & RA. My meds usually keep everything else away...I take so much. It worries me. If I have any infection at the time of my treatment, they won't let me have it, until I'm totally over it. I have a treatment the 15th. I know that's still 10 days away, but when I get something, I can't shake it very easily. I may have to see my Dr & get some anti-biotics. They're so expensive, though.

Well, gotta get ready for work today. Hope you girls have a good, peaceful day. Kim.....let us hear from you. http://www.amroriginals.com/freebies/sigs/furever.gif

[Khewes]

Sorry, have been away from my computer for a few days.

Things here have been okay. Yesterday I went to the orthopedist and got a cortisone shot in my foot. YEOWCH. But it feels better now. Plus, he put me in one of those splints that look like a ski boot. So fashionable am I....

He wrote a prescription for me to get another set of leg braces, but I'm not sure I'm ready to go down that route again, so I will hold onto it while I make up my mind.

Have a great and pain free day everyone!~

[Iamgonnadoit]

Hi Khewes and everyone! Khewes mailed me and said I should come and say hello to all you fellow RA sufferers so here I am. I dont know if somebody is watching over me at this minute in time or what but for the first time in 4 years I am almost, not quite,pain free. Still niggles but no major pain. I was on MTX, celebrex, muscle relaxers at night, pain killers during the day and tramadol at night. Splints for both hands when needed, a thing for round my neck when it gives grief and and ankle support. Anyway I took myself off the mtx in December having been on it for over 3 years.. as I was having major gastric probs. Thelast time I saw my Rheumy was last month and I had been in a dreadful flare since New year so he gave me a steroid jab in my butt that he said was different to pills and wouldnt affect my weight. The combination of that and my diet has made me feel great. I have started doing low impact arobics and alot more walking and have lost 25lbs in 7 weeks. I really dont know how long this will last but I really need to make the most of it and stay positive for as long as possible.I am only taking celebrex atm and hopefully it will give my inside a chance to improve with a break in all my medications. I have rattled on far too much and I apologise but I am so pleased to be able say how I feel to people that UNDERSTAND. That goes for the weight as well as the RH. We all need each other to keep us positive and keep our spirits up.
Every time you achieve in life either by making a new move, losing a pound. stopping smoking ,whatever, is another positive move toward the new you. I was so sick of me that I really mean to get there so lets do it together. Catch you all soon ....Pam

[Angel-lover]

http://www.emotipad.com/newemoticons/Welcome.gif WOW!! All that weight loss! http://www.emotipad.com/newemoticons/Party2.gif That's great work! So glad you're feeling well, also. You're sure an encouragement to to rest of us! Thank you for sharing with us, and hope you stay. Don't ever appologize for posting a lot or a little. Just post what you want or need to. Sometimes we just need to vent. Sometimes we have a lot of good news...like today! Sometimes, it's just checking in. Whatever, we love to hear from everyone.
I hope that shot keeps working for you! Wonder what it is that wouldn't cause weight gain. ;) Lucky you.

Hi Kim...glad you posted. I'm sure you don't like wearing the boot...I've seen them. But, if it helps..... Also, the leg braces, I don't blame you. I'm suppose to wear a back brace, for my OA. I wore it 1 day, about 20 years ago. :lol:

Hi Rita..... :)

I'm in a hurry...have an important appt to get my nails done! :D Be back later. Have a good day. http://www.emotipad.com/newemoticons/Party-Time.gif

[RAR]

HI! Everyone hope that you all are having apain freeday well ohio weather sucks today and after working 12 hrs I really feel it Kim I feel for you with that shot just hope that it is feeling better by now got many of them in my knee. and the boot isnt the greatest looking thing but if it helps that is all that matters < Angel this is the season for those nasty infections so dont wait too long and see the DR so you can go and get your other treatment thank goodness for antiobitics but at times it is hard finding the right one and so expensive so take care of yourself Pam welcome and please post back as you are an insperation to me 25 lbs in 7 weeks is wonderful let see if I keep loosing a pound a week it will take me 6 months to get where I want right now sounds depressing so whaterever you are doing keep it well girls have a great Sat Rita

[Khewes]

Greetings from the woman with the huge plastic foot!
Busy busy busy today, just wanted to say hi and have a wonderful pain free day!

Kim

[RAR]

Just thought I would pop in and say HI! to everyone hope your day is going great really cold todaywish I could stay inside but that is wishful thinking!!!!!!!!! Rita

[linus]

hi everyone i tried to find a support group for people with spinals but couldn,t as i also have oa ithought i might pop in and have a chat Can anyone give me any ideas on working out when all you are allowed to do is walk {which is pretty naff when half the time you cant crawl ;) im allowed to swim but at the moment its still really cold and cant seem to get my body to co-operate any suggestions would be gratefully recieved ive been told i need to lose 100llbs but they never tell you how to!!!
thanks again

[Angel-lover]

:coffee: Welcome Linus! Glad you joined us. Tell us more about yourself.

Well, I can't exercise....even walk far, so don't have a lot of advice to give....maybe an indoor pool? We have one in our town, but can't get anyone to go with me. I finally lost my weight just by dieting & LOTS of water. Wish you a lot of luck....& hope you stay with us.

I don't have much time, lately...but, will be back ASAP!

Have a good Friday, girls. ;)

[Khewes]

Hi Linus, and welcome!
I find I do my best walking on a treadmill. I can hold onto the handrails and steady myself. You can control the speed that way as well. I don't walk well outdoors, as i need a flat surface to walk and can't deal with sidewalks and rocks, etc.

Good morning everyone! My Enbrel is due to arrive today. I may have to restrain myself from kissing the UPS guy!
I'm sooooo excited. I've taken it before and it's a Miracle Drug.
Yay!

Have a great weekend!
Kim

[Angel-lover]

AWWWW go ahead & kiss 'm ....make his day!! :lol: Just kidding. But, you know, every time I get my treatment....I love everyone at the clinic!! It's the following 2 days that I don't want anyone in the whole world around! :o I thought it was just me, for awhile...but, I have a friend who takes Remicade, also, only for Crohn's disease. He's says that he's the same way. It's had to describe...we're drunk, "out of it", & VERY cranky. But, starting on the 3rd day, the world starts looking a little better. :) The day of treatment would be fine, only he & I both are very sensitive to it. (I'm allergic to a lot of meds) They have to load us with Zertec, Benadryl & whatever else it takes. Sooo
we sleep the day away! When it's his time for treatment, I call & give him a "pep" talk, & he does the same for me. Also, my veins are so tiny, the cathedar is larger than they are...doesn't help matters. (at least something about me is tiny :lol: ) We just really dread it. He's the meteorologist at the TV station that I volunteer at...so, he & his wife are around often.

KIM, RITA, LINUS, PAM....& ALL....HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND!
http://www.nolamarie.net/katie/ShowLetter9.jpg

[linus]

well hi to you all :lol: ive been made to feel so welcome on this site by all its such a releif ;) to have peopla to talk to well where to start im 32 live in edinburgh in scotland im married have two sons one 14 and one 11 both to be a year older this july .I have a bad spine my discs are rupturing and ive had one one operation to remove said disc only to find that same said disc had calcified and they had to take bits off of my spine to relive pressure on my spinal chord only to find the nerves were shot ,i also have ostio arthritis and bladder weakness{because of spine} and irratable bowel syndrome my gp wants me to have hip replacement but i said maybe when im fifty :p all i can say is that thank god we have the nhs as im on that much medication i rattle well now ive depressed you all and in danger of you all throwing me out im going to go thanks for the welcome :lol:

[RAR]

Welcome Linus!!!!!!!!!!! hopeing that everybody has a great Sunday Rita

[Khewes]

Linus, I had spinal surgery ten years ago. I definitely feel your pain. My disc had ruptured and then dessicated. (dried out). I had to have some roto-rooter work done back there to make sure that if any more discs ruptured and bulged , they wouldn't press on the nerve.
I'm sorry to hear you had a bad experience.


My Enbrel arrived last Friday and it was all I could do not to pull down my drawers and give myself a shot in my office. I refrained and waited until later that night.
I'm feeling better already. It's such a miracle drug.

Have a great, pain free day everyone!

[Iamgonnadoit]

Hi all and welcome to Linus......well I will start with apologising for posting then disappearing but you know when youre on that "high" and you suddenly hit a flat......yep thats me , I hit it this weekend. There I was last week saying how much weight I had lost and how pain free I was etc etc.....well that was true and I felt great. Then firstly, I hit a plateau and I am still there. Secondly, I havent mentioned as yet that my eldest son is married and with my youngest Grandson and his wife they live in CT. My youngest son who Graduated last year from Rider University is getting married in NJ on 3rd July 03. Incase you hadnt realised I live and my family have always lived in the UK. Anyway thats beside the point. Apart from having RA all over my body and coping best I can at any given time I do manage to fly out to the States 2 sometimes 3 times a year.Well I have been waiting for an appointment to come through from the hospital as I have 3 carcinomas on my face that have to be removed. Basically the plastics are going cut and rebuild my face and do some pretty major work and this is taking place on 28th April I learnt on Saturday. Then exactly 8 weeks later I fly out to my sons wedding. I am feeling pretty scared and sorry for myself, no infact I am petrified of what lies ahead in the hospital. You would think us women with having babies ( I have 4) and all that goes with it, all the times I have been to hospital with RA, and everything else you go through life trying to avoid but ending up in A&E with that you would cope with anything. Well I can cope with most things but hospitals are my downfall. "Hospiphobic" thats my word for it...lol Anyway thats why I havent been on. Sorry about going on a bit.... I have also read your posts and my gripes seem pretty trivial to yours so i am saying sorry again now and i feel guilty moaning.....Changinging the subject I just have to say , Angels graphics are wonderful. I really look forward to seeing what will be the next picture on the posting as I scroll down. If anything ever cheered anyone up its the site of one of your postings... :lol: Not only that ....Klewes, I am so glad you have found your miracle drug and I think youre superwoman injecting yourself. Anyway I have to make a move I am of to see the Doctor would you believe...in fact I will ask you ladies and see if you know the answer.... I am suffering desperately with my sinus and seeing as my jaw, neck and head all have RA probs could my sinus be affected in someway too or am I right off beat now. I have totally lost my sense of smell and I have heard thats connected with RA. Have a lovely rest of the day.....Hope I didnt dampen it......keep smiling.....Take care ..Pam ;)

[Khewes]

I don't think I've ever heard of the sinuses being involved, but it wouldn't surprise me a bit. This disease continues to fascinate me. And not in a good way.

Pam, you should really ask your doc if Enbrel or Remicade is appropriate for you. I kid you not, last week I was using a cane, this week, not. I inject myself between the methotrexate and the Enbrel three times a week. It's not hard once you get used to it. Except when your husband is leaning over your leg making the ew face and going "how do you DO that to yourself?"
Well, the alternative is that some day you will be helping me in the bathroom, buddy.

I was feeling so good, I got a new haircut and started wearing makeup again.
It's terrible how pain sucks the living right out of you.

Kim

[linus]

hi all im sorry i havnt been in to chat but as i have been having really crap week {self inflicted caffene withdrawel} and it was my own fault i thought id stay away :?: any way im so glad your feeling better khewes my doc switches my painkillers every 6 months or so it takes my body a few days to get used to the difference then i setle back to normality i normally only get unbearable pain when i forget and try to do normal 32 year old things like mucking around with ever growing kids or going for a night out and trying to dance my socks off {god i miss dancing } or forgeting and buying too much shopping and trying to get same said shopping home again :?: but touch wood i havent had a really bad spell for ages :dancer: Pam {sorry cant spell the other} dont your hospitals have people to help you relax about the visit maybe one way of dealing with it is imagine your faboulosly wealthy and your going for a megga facelift so you can look 21 again {i think ill have some just need to find a millionaire to marry :lol: } so every one at the wedding will say that your never old enough to be mother of the groom :lol:

[Iamgonnadoit]

Hi Linus thanks for that, you sound just like my daughter who said now you have lost a bit of weight maybe they'll do you a tummy tuck while youre in there. Well Mum it wont hurt to ask.....I didnt laugh as loud as she did. Anyway catch you all soon, keep smiling........

[linus]

hey i never thought of that it couldnt hurt to ask

[RAR]

HI! everyone hopeing that you all are having a pain free day been out most of the day shoveling as we really got hit hard wanted to help hubby out as he has a bad back just hopeing that mine doesnt give me any problems I know I will pay for it tomorrow but thinking postive today !!!!!!!!!will have to take extra aleeve today well have a great Tuesday Rita

[Angel-lover]

Hi everyone. Had a treatment yesterday....so, not feeling so well today. Have a lot of family problems right now, also. Just bare with me.

Pam...I'm sooo sorry about your surgery. I know you're nervous about it. I'm sure everything will be alright. I'm praying for you. We're all here, if you need to talk.http://www.emotipad.com/newemoticons/Group-Hug2.gif

Yes, RA can be rough on the sinuses. I had a flare up last week.

Kim, so glad you're doing better.

Hello to Rita, & Linus

Thanks for the compliment on graphics. I enjoy posting them. Going to go lay down fo awhile.http://www.emotipad.com/newemoticons/Zzzz.gifHope you all have a good day. http://media.euniverse.com/funpages/cms_content/1437/flasher.gif

[Angel-lover]

http://www.harrythecat.com/graphics/b/stpat9.gifHope everyone has a great day!http://www.harrythecat.com/graphics/b/shamroc2.gif

[RAR]

HI! Everyone Happy ST Patricks DAY!!!!!!!! hope you are having a great day Angel hope you feel better soon I guess we all go thru problems so hope yours goes away fast ! Rita

[Iamgonnadoit]

Just thought I would say, hope everybody is having a good day and that Angel, you feel better after your nap. :) Let me join you with my wishes for you all on St. Patricks Day.....I dont know what the weather is like over in the States today but we are having a couple of beautiful spring days with temps. in the 60's and I have been out in the garden getting rid of all the dead stuff and putting in some colour of the spring bedding plants and it has cheered me up no end. I actually think Spring is a lovely season, doesnt get so hot it wipes you out and doesnt get so cold you cant go out. Right I am off to kick the dishwasher into shape, ie my husband :lol: Catch you soon...keep smiling..Pam :goodvibes

[Khewes]

Good morning everyone.

I am feeling Fab-oo-lous!

Hope everyone has a glorious pain free day!

Kim

[RAR]

Good Afternoon hopeing that all of you have a great Friday!!!!!! Rita

[Iamgonnadoit]

Hi everyone, cant believe its the weekend again already. The weeks just seem to fly by. Well I heard you have had snow, well we have gales,sun and the occasional shower but with the tempremental weather comes the aches and pains and the irritability. My right hand is killing and back in a splint and my shoulders giving me grief too. Then theres all those niggles you get in your legs and feet. please lets hope this passes quickly. Have you noticed I havent mentioned my weight for ages , well thats cos theres nothing to tell. Two weeks now I have sat on this plateau and I am still sticking with the eating plan and really havent cheated but must admit i have been tempted. :nono: Oh well I expect I will lose some more weight when the weather brightens up again and we can get out and about more. I have an 8 acre field and up until I was diagnosed with RA I bred Welsh Mountain Ponies. I still have four but havent done much with them as I have been so immobile. My husband goes up every day to feed etc but thats about it. Luckily they live out all year so its not too much of a problem. Right got to go and start cooking. Enjoy your weekend all of you and I do hope you are all pain free atm. Tomorrow is Mothers Day over here so I am sure I will get to here from all the kids one way or another. Keep smiling and take care....Pam :goodvibes

[Angel-lover]

http://www.harrythecat.com/graphics/b/mother1.gifPam!

No snow here! Spring started Saturday....beautiful day!

Hope all have a great Sunday!
http://www.eakles.com/102SUN3.gif

[Iamgonnadoit]

Oh WOW! Thankyou Angel, that was so sweet of you. I do hope youre feeling much better now that the sun has come out. It normally has that affect, kind of smothers you with warmth and energies. Well its still very unsettled here so don't really know where we are. Just had really heavy hail even though the sun has been out. Very strange.Well my son and family sent me 2 tops from my favourite store in the States (Avenue....love it) and they were super, then about 15 mins ago the door knocked and a man delivered the biggest basket of fruit. That was lovely. Very thoughtful. My middle son is coming over for dinner and my youngest will hopefully call in here in a couple of weeks on route to see his fiance in NJ. He plays basketball in Finland and they have finished their season but are still involved with playoffs. My daughter will be up at Easter but she sent a card so thats nice.My daughter also sent me an email I have to share with you. I hope it makes you all smile as it did me.

> Recognising she's not as young as she once was, Julie Andrews has reissued her hit of yesteryear, "My Favourite Things", to appeal to the Saga generation.
> OK, then, sing along .
>
>
> Zantac and Prozac and needles for knitting,
> Walkers and handrails and new dental fittings,
> Bundles of Hello mags tied up with string,
> These are a few of my favourite things.
>
> Cataracts and stairlifts, hearing aids and glasses,
> Polident, Fixodent and false teeth in glasses,
> Pacemakers, golf carts and porches with swings,
> These are a few of my favourite things.
>
> When the pipes leak,
> When the bones creak,
> When the knees go bad,
> I simply remember my favourite things,
> And then I don't feel so bad.
>
> Hot tea and crumpets, and corn pads for bunions,
> No spicy hot food or food cooked with onions,
> Bathrobes and heat pads and hot meals they bring,
> These are a few of my favourite things.
>
> Back pains, confused brains, and no fear of sinnin',
> Thin bones and fractures and hair that is thinin',
> And we won't mention our short shrunken frames,
> When we remember our favourite things.
>
> When the joints ache, when the hips break,
> When the eyes grow dim,
> Then I remember the great life I've had,
> And then I don't feel - so bad.
>
>
> Keep goin' - we've got another year to get through now! :lol:
Not really sure what to make of it as I am only 53 not 95 but it did make me smile.

Right I am off , keep smiling.....take care.....have a good day! Pam :goodvibes

[Angel-lover]

http://www.emotipad.com/newemoticons/ROFL.gif http://www.emotipad.com/newemoticons/ROTFLMAO.gif http://www.emotipad.com/newemoticons/Swing.gif That's sooo cute, Pam....thanks! Glad you had a good Mother's Day. Ours is the 2nd Sunday in May. I like your picture...just wish I could see it better. Why don't you post it in one of the posts, so we can enlarge it?!

Gotta work at the station today, & do my program this evening. Going to be a long day....but, my Remicade is kicking in now. Hope all of you have a great Monday! http://skins.hotbar.com/skins/mailskins/img/Garfield/hole_prv.gif

[Iamgonnadoit]

Hi all, Suns out again all though its a bit chilly but not if we wrap up. Hope you all have a great day and that its the start of a pain free week. Angel you should feel a new person once that remicade kicks in according to those that take it on the Arthritis Insight forum. As for my pic its the only one I could find thats recent and half decent....ooooh poetry. Anyway its on my profile page. Well gotta go, only really popped in to say hi! Keep smiling and Take care....Pam

[Angel-lover]

Hello everybody....kinda slow here the last few days. Maybe there's a lot going on with Spring in the air. Kinda cold air, here, the last couple of days!

Yes, the Remicade really gives me a good boost for about 5 wks. Can always tell when it goes to wearing off. The Methotrexate helps from week to week, also. Although, I hate it. Too many side effects.

Hope all of you have a great Tuesday! Today is my oldest grandson's birthday. 24! Of course I'm not old enough to have a grandson that old! :D World would call him step....not us...he was our first grandchild...out of 11!

Talk to you all later! http://jeannescountrycottage.com/summer/bear/hssigtag.gif

[Khewes]

Hi everyone!
Been so busy with work and life!

Hope everyone is having a great pain free week!

Kim

[Iamgonnadoit]

Khewes hi , you sound so perky....thats great. Hi all, I am getting so excited , my 24 year old baby flies in today. I havent seen him for six months and its his last visit as a single laddo as he gets married July. I think hes here for a week or 10 days before he flies over to your part of the world. Anyway gonna go now just wanted to say hi, be pain free, keep smiling and take care.......Pam

[RAR]

HI! everyone hope tht you all are having a great wednesday work is calling me Rita

[Angel-lover]

Hello ladies...hope you had a good day. Pam...so glad you're gonna see your son soon! You sound so excited..as I know you are!! http://www.emotipad.com/newemoticons/Excited.gif Enjoy your time with him! http://www.emotipad.com/newemoticons/Greenbounce.gif

Good to hear from you Kim! :D

Hello Rita & all!!!! Talk to you tomorrow........ http://skins.hotbar.com/skins/mailskins/img/070103/070103people_sleep_pot_prv.gif

[Khewes]

Good morning everyone!
I am feeling perky these days. Most of the time.
:)

Life has been kicking my butt lately, but in a good way. So busy with kids, dog, work, laundry, etc etc etc. But I feel busy and now overwhelmed. That's so nice for a change. My leg is getting pretty beat up from all these shots, but if I get to feel this way, then the bruises are all worth it.
Oh, and I started a website. Online journal thingy. I've been missing my writing since I took a semester off from school, and this has been great fun.
http://callmekim.diaryland.com/
If you happen to stumble in, let me know and say hi, ok?

Have a great, pain free day!

[Happy Canuk]

Thought you gals might enjoy this, I know I did :)

http://photos.imageevent.com/happycanuk/pictures/Wonders.jpg

[Angel-lover]

Thank you, Happy Canuk!! It's true! I'm finding out there's a lot more to happiness, than what I used to think, also! Drop in any time.....I've missed you!

Hope everyone is feeling well today. This has been a BEAUTIFUL spring day! Have a great Sunday.
http://www.countryclipart.com/ILoveCntrySet/welcmfrndsbdhscandleshelf.gif

[Angel-lover]

Hello everyone....hope all are feeling as good as you can on this Tuesday morning. My right leg & both feet are really bothering me the last few days. Going to rain most of this week, too, so that won't be much help.

Kim...I really enjoyed your website! Sorry about your friend.

I'm going to take it easy today. (my day off) Maybe I'll feel better. Take care.http://www.emotipad.com/newemoticons/Feet-Up.gif

[Iamgonnadoit]

Hi all, sorry I haven't posted but its been so good with my son being home that I have been making the most of the company. Unfortunately hes flying to NJ on Monday so not long left to improve my rep at scrabble :lol: I have probably been eating alot of the wrong things this too and that I will regret when I stop to think about it. My scales will start screaming at me. :( I am having alot of pain with my RA this week too. You said you had been achey too Angel so I can deffinately sypathise with you. I have decided its not bad weather that makes me bad, its changable. In other words if its hot suddenly I can be just as bad as when theres snow on the ground or when its mild. Changing temps are the problem. We have had lovely weather for about 3 days and now its on the change again and rain is forecast.
Right I suppose I had better go. There is a pile of dishes that wont do themselves. I really must get back on track with my healthy eating and my Richard Simmons videos. Got to get this weight down a bit before the wedding.
:cb: and :dancer: I will catch all again at the weekend I am sure.TTFN

[Angel-lover]

Hi everyone...

Pam....I know what you mean. The weather changes, & my RA acts up. Cold or rainy weather hits & my OA acts up! I was like you, though. I expected bad weather to effect the RA...but, it doesn't. It's just a change in the weather. :?:

Speaking of change....this thread is getting pretty long, so I'm going to start a new thread soon. Don't want to lose anyone though. Instead of it being Newbie....with RA (since I'm not a newbie, anymore :) ) I think it may be "Friends with RA & OA, etc...." I don't want to stop anyone else from coming in & joining us. Anyone have an idea for a name? I'm going to wait a few days to make sure everyone knows.

I can't believe tomorrow is Friday already! Time is really flying! I hope everyone has a great Friday....suppose to be beautiful here...uh oh....it's been cold here the last few days...so, change in weather!
http://jeannescountrycottage.com/adoptions1/afbearbunny.gif

[Khewes]

Happy Monday everyone. It's cold here in the Northeast and yesterday it snowed briefly??? What is THAT all about anyway?
sooo.... am having a rough RA day, but no use complaining. Just have to soldier on and it gets better eventually.

Have a great week everyone.

Kim

[Angel-lover]

Hi friends....hope you all had a great weekend! I was very busy....sorry couldn't post.

Kim...sorry RA is acting up worse. Snow! WOW!!!!

Hope to hear from everyone else soon........got a long day, so gotta go. I'll post more tonight or tomorrow.......probably with the new thread!!

Kinda excited.....never started a new thread from an old thread. :lol: http://timbuktu.eluria.com/hushblinksfiles/blink_haveagreatday.gif

[Iamgonnadoit]

Hi all, Monday again! The days and weeks are just flying past. Anyway Robert, my son has flown back to NJ today and although he really didnt make much noise, wasnt in an awful lot and gave me all his dirty laundry to do I am missing him like crazy all ready. Still, next week I have my 13 year old grandaughter up for a week so that should liven the place up a bit.

We are still having really weird weather here. One minute the suns out, the next we have dark skies and hail and rain. My aches move round my body continually and I am sick of hearing myself moaning, so I am really feeling sorry for my husband who has to listen to me grumble. Mind you he can grumble just as much when it suits. What a couple. :rollpin: :blah: Hehe........

Well Angel whats the new thread going to be called? I tried to think of a new name but one just wouldnt come :?: , bet you have a good name for it though. You really do sound quite excited at the prospect.

Ok I am off now to start cooking. :chef: ...I will look out for the new thread.

[stirfried]

Hi,
I just found this site today, And I have R.A. I had lost 80 lbs from 2002 to 2003. Then I have gained it all back, and Have been trying to lose weight. I have ra in both my feet,ankles knees and now its moving up to my hips and shoulders. Yes It is a wonderful desease. I got it when I was 45 3 years later and still not at my best, I take humira alone not with methotrexate it messed up my blood cells . So I am just taking the humira and it is not working very well anymore. I can walk alot better than 2 years ago. But I want to be thinner and healthy again, or as healthy as I can be. I started to workout slowly, first I did pilates 2 times aweek, just needed help getting up and down from the floor. I did that for about a month or more than I got a aerobic rider and started riding this machine 3 times a week and now I am trying to add some resistance weight training to speed up my metabolism. Haven't lost much 3 lbs in 2 months, part of it I am sure is that my metabolism is really slow since I dropped so much weight so fast. Now my body is in this feast or famine phase where it wants to keep all the weight I gained in case I starve I guess. Part of it was not totally sticking to my eating plan I am detirmed to start again and drink some grapefruit juice hoping it will jump start my metabolism. I am eating low fat and low calorie. I could use some help and to see if anyone else has had problems losing weight. Please let me know I could use the incouragement. thanks laura (stirfried)

[Khewes]

I may get stoned for this, because I don't know how many of the ladies here are on what plan.. but I follow Atkins. When I am being strict, my RA is much better. Stay away from nightshade vegetables like onions and eggplant. They have high inflammatory properties.

When I am not eating sugar, flower, potatoes, rice and other high sugar/starch vegetables ,my RA seems almost non existant. Most days anyway.

I do eat vegetables, just green leafies. And cauliflower, and asparagus, and string beans, and creamed spinach is my new favorite!

[Khewes]

Oops, also forgot to add tomatoes as something I stay away from too many of. Also high on the list of inflammatory properties.

[Iamgonnadoit]

Hi Laura. Welcome! I too have RA and have put on major weight since being diagnosed about 41/2 years ago. I was taking Methotrexate for over three years and it really messed up my gastric system and I found that I was feeling sick all the time and eating to try and subdue the sickness. Then I stopped smoking in February 2003 and more weight went on. Well I have been on a healthy eating plan for eleven weeks. The first eight weeks I had lost 12 kg's .....about 26 lbs, I thought that was great. Then I hit a plateau and I am still there. I have RA in ALL the usual joints, hands, wrists, ankles, feet and then I have the grotty ones, jaw, neck, shoulders, even my head. Luckily they dont all play up together I have OA in my knees and hips and God only knows what in my back. Anyway I have realised that its good days and bad days and I do intend to lose this weight whatever. I have tried Richard Simmons videos and do which ever level suits the day and how my body feels. I walk most days but not great distances. I will do more but at the moment the weather is so up in the air and so changeable that it is really hard to up the exercise. I AM GONNA DO IT though...I am going to lose weight and I am sure you will too on this forum. Keep popping back and we can encourage each other. Talk to you soon......

[linus]

hi all soo sorry for being missing in action for so long but what a month its been my gran died and my family decieded to turn on each other like a pack of wolves also the fact that she died on my 15th anniversary i felt really guilty and so after i got over the funeral {two hour reqiuem mass} i just couldnt get back in to the swing of things anyway still on the downwards slope back and legs been giving me major greif {i have two half shaved legs to prove it } but getting there if im forgiven for going m.i.a i will come back later and post more
speak soon kirsty :o

[Angel-lover]

http://www.wholesalecountrygiftware.com/images/Graphic_free_5_HOUSE_4.gifSo glad you joined us Laura! Also, sorry for your problems. We ALL can relate to the pain & suffering you go through. It sounds as though you're able to exercise some, though....& that's a GOOD thing. The only kind of exercise I can possibly do is in water, & no place around here for that. I DID lose 47 lbs last summer, though, without it. Just have to stay determined. I drunk a LOT of water....ate fruit...& just a little supper. Gave myself one free meal a week to look forward to. It worked, but had to stay very disciplined. Whatever works for you........ We're all here to cheer you on, whether it's weight issues, or pain. Please, stay with us & be a part of our little group.

Linus....we missed you a lot...but, nothing to forgive. I'm so sorry about your gran & your families upsets. Sometimes that's how people handle grief. Then, again, sometimes there are other reasons. Just hope it all smooths out. Bad about it being on your anniversary. I had a good friend to die of cancer last summer. I was so afraid she would pass on my birthday (June3rd), but she held on until June 4th. I felt it was selfish of me, in a way....but, couldn't see me celebrating a birthday each year with it being the anniversary of her death. I loved her so much. Hope your back & legs are better soon.

Iamgonnadoit...yes...I believe you ARE gonna do it!! You sound like you're very determined. If ever you get discouraged, my friend....look me up. More than willing to listen.

Kim....I don't know of anything you'd get stoned for here! Sounds like a good diet, to me. Just let us know how it goes. So glad it's working for you. I've got to lay off the doughnuts. People have started sending them to the TV station almost every day....they sit right in front of my desk! :^: I'll have to weigh on the 19th when I get my next treatment........!!

I suppose the new thread will be called "Friends with RA & OA" I wanted the etc., in case someone else wanted to join...but, it kinda sounds strange. Of course, we welcome everyone! I suppose my next post will be it! :cb: :cb:

Everyone have a great Tuesday! http://www.eakles.com/29farmanimated.gif

[RAR]

HI! everyone hope that today is apain free day for all thanks for the Oa on the new thread!!!!!!!!!! been busy sorting clothes getting ready for nice weatherwill be ahead this year when it does come LOL well have a great day Rita

[stirfried]

Hi
Whats up? thank you all for welcoming me I really appreciated it. I am supposed to start my new eating plan today. But I am having bad day, lots of pain and feeling sick. with a small temp of 101. So I really want some Ice-cream from dairy queen.
Someone said that they can only exercise in water, but there was no place to go. Have you tried your hospital. I live in a small town with about 4000- 5000 people in it. Anyway the hopital will let me use there pool for exercise. I started using it for my fibromyalgia, And I thought that was bad,but R.A. seems to hurt more so now I use swimming pool for R.A. It cost 3.00$ a day. So You might ask at your local hospital.
So tomorrow I will jump back on the healthy eating train again, but this time I am going to try very very hard not to cheat. I know I can do it. I lost some on the scarsdale diet, but strict for me I could not stay on it. I will go back to low fat and low calorie and lots of water,and I will start to workout again slowly do I dont get burnt out. Or cause myself more pain. I have slacked off for almost 10 days or so. We moved to a different appt. and that took a lot out of me. So I have been trying to recoup from the move. I always seem to get fluey feeling along with my R.A. pain. Stress is the thing that makes me at my worst with pain and feeling yucky.
I hope everybody is feeling better today and no pain.
Laura (stirfried)
Somebody please write me back again so you can tell mw more about you guys here. :spin: :stress:

[stirfried]

:o Sorry I used the wrong thing for (and) it should be &

[linus]

hi stirfried im quite new here and im in a different position than you all seem to be i live in scotland and the local authority run local centres i sat and counted i have 8 full size swimming pools within half an hour of my house and one smaller one at the local high school about five minutes round the corner that the public can use when the school isnt and at nights as well and because im on benefits because of my illness i get a discount on everything there is a big centre about 10 mins a long the road that has a pool a full gym aerobics boxercise circuit training badminton a sauna a jacuzzi and massage centre and a beatician {you have to pay full price } there is also a couple of advisors one of which has physiotherapy training and can advise you what you can use and what you cant and to be quite honest i dont know how i would cope if i had to pay for everything i get my meds free my tens machine my walking aids and even the replacement pads for my tens machine i can even get free stop smoking prescriptions be it tablets or patches ar gum i can even get free support bandages or splints or braces is it very expensive for the things you require to cope with your illness? speak soon
kirsty

[Angel-lover]

DON'T POST HERE!! EVERYONE LOOK FOR "FRIENDS WITH RA & OA"!!! :cb: :cb:

[stirfried]

Kirsty. Hi how are you doing today.? Things sound very different in scotland, It sounds like it got a way better medical system than we do.
What is a ten machine? I don't know where that site is (friends with R.A. or O.A. Do you??
I havent been able to workout in 2 weeks because my r.a. is bad again. I mean I always have the pain, but now there is more pain and I feel sick too. Any way I am going to do 10 min of denise austins aerobic workout, just to get started again and workout my way back up to 20-30 min and somw resistance training. I am on a low calorie diet. I have only lost 4 lbs since feb. 13. I was cheating so much. I am recommited and so far this week I haven't cheated I plan to give myself 1 day next weds to eat normal food. not over induldge.
Hope to hear from you soon.
Laura (stirfried)

[Angel-lover]

http://www.3fatchicks.com/forum/showthread.php?t=39078IF ANYONE GETS LOST.....CLICK HERE! :coffee:

[RAR]

HI! everyone hope you all had a pain freeday well the weatger in Ohio hasnt helped my pain as all it has done is rainand supposed to tomorrow so got to think postive so have a great evening Rita