Arthritis Stories from Our Community

"I struggle with my day-to-day tasks (cleaning, doing my hair, walking, running errands), and being able to participate in events/activities that others my age are doing, I was diagnosed when I was 1 so I don't know any different but I still have days where I feel down about my disability and struggles with arthritis. I take the hardships of arthritis and turn it positive by advocating and raising awareness about the disease. Nobody deserves to suffer in silence and I try to take my situation and build a social media platform where everyone can find common ground and support."

Taiva, 22 years old, Psoriatic Rheumatoid Arthritis

Harriet, 74, Osteoarthritis

"I find it hard to do the things I used to like. I used to go on long walks and travel. Now I find it difficult to carry luggage or walk long distances. I try to go to different parks for walks and stay busy with my book club. I am very active in my church and that helps me to stay positive. I've struggled with my arthritis for almost twenty years. It can be hard and sometimes I feel sad remembering what my bones used to feel like. I just try to look forward and keep my head high. It's important to not feel alone. I'm glad I know people that are understanding and supportive."

Magalene, 81 years old, Osetoarthritis, Rhumatoid Arthritis, and Gout

"I suffer every day with osteoarthritis in my knee and hands along with rheumatoid arthritis. In 2005 I had my first gout attack and that put me in bed for two days. I was placed on antibiotics. In 2014 I had my left knee replaced as my knee was so bad I could hardly stand or walk. I also had lymphedema. My thumbs started to ache and I was diagnosed with osteoarthritis. and RA in my lower back. In 2021 I had a stroke and in 2022 the bone in my left knee crumbled and I had to have a total revision surgery with a stent in my lower leg. This past May I had a hip replacement from osteoarthritis. I get an injection of Synvisc every 6 months. To stay positive I read a lot of devotional and motivational books and learn all that I can from articles. When I have to be up and out I smile even if I am cringing inside."

"I used to fish almost every week, lately with my back pain I go once a month, maybe less. My wife has RA and is very understanding. We try to find activities to do together, like watching movies, trying new restaurants, or board games with our kids. Both of our kids are in their twenties but they still spend time with us and help us when we need it. We stay positive by encouraging each other, but it can be difficult on the bad days."

Tim and Diane, 52 and 50, Rheumatoid Arthritis