Hello everyone. I'm a 36 year old woman who's been suffering with degenerative disc disease (both cervical and lumbar), cervical spondylosis, and fibromyalgia for about 6 years, and now I've just been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis as well.
I'm fortunate to have some great support. I remarried this past summer to a truly wonderful man and gained two great stepchildren in the process (my stepson lives with his mother and my stepdaughter is out on her own). My parents and sister live nearby. And somehow I am still managing to work full time, although it is becoming very difficult.
I've tried many treatments, my social calendar is full of doctor appointments, and I'm on a wealth of medications. (Thankfully I have good medical insurance.) I just started Enbrel today and I'm trying to manage my expectations, while still remaining hopeful.
I am finding the combination of all these diseases to be a little overwhelming, so I thought I might drop in here for some shared information and some good company.
Welcome, Welcome....Welcome. You'll find yourself amoung many great friends here.
The majority of folks that visit this forum go directly to the RA section when they log in; so don't think anyone is ignoring you.
Please copy and past your introduction there. Everyone will be thrilled you're here.
Again; Welcome to AI.
AND; By the way, I'm 36 as well with a blended family alsol. I too remarried two years ago myself and gained two young stepsons also. I've also got RA & DDD. See.....you're making friends already
I appreciate the suggestion about adding my intro to the RA section. Thanks!