Today while I was in the checkout lane at a store, there was an elderly woman that was in front of me in line. She was very petite, tiny boned and all hunched over.Her hands were going in one direction, her fingers all knarled going in another direction.She struggled getting her change out of her wallet with her bent hands and fingers. WHen she was leaving, I offered to put her shoppping basket back for her and she asked me what I said and I repeated my self and with a bigg smile, she thanked me and said she could do it just fine herself.
When she left I told the checkout clerk that it is so sad that she had to suffer like that, and tahat I had the same thing and am grateful I have been able to take meds that are now available, even if I cannot always be on them due to the cost and no insurance.
He got sort of teary eyes and said that he didn't know I had RA and OA. I got teary eyed and said "yep, just like my RD told me years ago when I would complain to him so much about the pain and deterioraton, it could be worse".
I looked at the clerk and told him that it is so weird to watch someone that you could very well be someday.Geesh, by the time I got to the car I was crying or her.
I try not to complain anymore, especially after situations such as that. And believe me when I tell you, I have been packing for a move and completely worn out and in pain. It clearly reminded me that it really could be worse. I often wonder if my Rheumatlogist realizes the impact his words have on my everyday life.
lynndee
Lyndee,
I know what you mean. I am a nurse at an cancer center and the other day I had a lady come in for shot - she doesn't have cancer but she obviously has RA. She was in a wheelchair and had lost the use of her hands almost completely. It really made me stop and think - I may think I have it bad but I onlyhave slight deformity in my hands and feet - and I am still able to walk and to work - It made me more thankful for what I do have
Copyright ArthritisInsight.com