RA at 22 | Arthritis Information

Hi Everyone,

I'm new to the board and I just wanted to introduce myself. I've had RA for about 4 years now and only recently started to talk about it. I found this board and I have found a lot of comfort in knowing others are feeling the same things as I am.

I'm 22 years old and was diagnosed with RA when I was 17, I had just graduated high school. Its been a really long road with very few days of relief. Its a constant worry. Its hard to ever enjoy a family function or event thats coming up because you are always more worried with how your body is going to feel.

I've recently graduated college and am now TRYING to find a job. Its crazy. I go interviews a nervous wreck, not because of what i'm going to say or be asked, but because i'm terrified that i'm going limp.

I've tried everything I can think of. I've been on mobic, methotrexate, celebrex, naproxen, prednisone, enbrel, humira, indomethacin, bextra, plaquinel and so many others that i can't even remember.

Just recently I had my hip replaced. I'm still in denial about that. Its just crazy to me... a 22 year old with a hip replacement.

I just wanted to share a little bit of my story. I could go on forever. Thank you for taking the time to read it. I hope that I'll be able to continue to find comfort in all your stories. Thank you for sharing them.

Welcome Lindsey. I'm sorry you are going through this at such a young age. Congrat's on graduating college and I wish you luck finding a job.

My son is 20 and a junior in college. He has suffered from a severe chronic illness since he was 13. He has suffered a lot, yet has always found a way to persevere and accomplish some amazing things. He's the most courageous person I've ever met. In spite of his illness, he has spent summers in Rome, Jerusalem, and the Philippines...certainly not a boring life! I sense in your story the same courage and perseverence. You've already accomplished a lot; never give up! You can do amazing things with your life and be a wonderful example for others...but don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it.

Good luck,

Alan

Hi Lindsey, welcome to the board, so sorry to hear your story, I was told at 21 that I had RA but I was an athlete and refused to believe the Drs, I never went to my Rheumy appt as I didn't feel that bad and took NSAIDS and occasional Pred injections by my GP, anyway, I ignored this horrible pain which grumbled on and on for years, with spinal damage especially and lots of joint pain that absolutely flared after having my 2nd child. I have strong faith in God and used prayers and the stronger meds supplied by a Rheumy in 2000 to enable me to participate in life basically as I was crippled literally. What I am trying to say is you will get thru whatever is thrown at you as I can see you are very strong and you have joined a great bunch of people who will help you thru this incredible journey. Try not to worry too much about tomorrow as it has a habit of taking care of itself, lots of love and best wishes, Janie.

Welcome Lindsay

I wish you great luck on getting a job!! What did you major in? I am sure you will find something soon!!

Warm Welcome. You sound very brave and although you have been through a lot, you sound very strong. Your are taking a big step is looking for support and acknowledging that you have a chronic illness. This does not mean in anyway that you are lett9ing the disease win or anything like that, it again just shows how brave you are to have the courage to face up to it. This is a great place for support from others who understand. If you have any questions, we will try to answer them best we can, if you just need to rant, we are good at passing around hugs! Welcome Lindsey! We're glad you're here. Hi Lindsey, welcome, I hope you find a med routine that works for you soon. My symptoms first appeared in my late 20's and were misdiagnosed. The RA actually quieted down until just recently (I'm 35) and the rheums were amazed that I had gone without treatment or diagnosis for so long. I hope that gives you some encouragement that even when RA is bad, it can quiet down for periods of time. Best, Kate Hi and a big welcome to you lindsey!

Welcome, Leidsey,

Dxed at 17 and finished college, looking for a job and afraid you will limp! Just think of what an amazing woman you are coming to be. Remember - hard duty makes us stronger!

Kathy