I'm a 53 year old male, diagnoised with RA about 10 years ago, and PA a couple of years ago. I've been married 29 years and have 3 wonderful children. Life would be good if it wasn't for this crap. I live in a small town in N.C. with no support group. You ladies are great and I love reading the posts [ for several years, on and off ], but I would really like to talk to another male. I think that I have handled this stuff pretty well over the years, but lately, well, I just would like to talk to someone. Any men out there?
Hey Gary,
Ask and you shall recieve! I haven't run across to many guys on these boards but I know they're out there, right guys! The ladies are also very informative and sometimes very entertaining, right ladies! Anyway, I am a 44 yr. old male and was dx'd 19 yrs. ago. I have been on practically every arthritis medication that has come down the pike. I was on Remicade for approx 3 yrs. and am now on Mtx, Prednisone, and Imuran and for the most part, pain free. I am glad that you have chosen this forum to be a part of and everyone here welcomes you and is looking forward to your input.
Hey you guys. Paul 52 is on here too. Men and women are definitely different on how we deal with these issues. I am glad Gary you started this thread. I better go - FOR MEN ONLY
But then i read your post and thought i would refrain... but now i cant... i must...
I NEED A MAN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Gary we do have a few good men here...but you're right; not enough. I think alot of them just lerk. Maybe this will get them talking!!
Come on guys; SPEAK UP!!!
Hey all! My name's Mike and I'm 44. A couple of weeks ago I got my RA dx. I've been bothered by it for nearly a year, but I've had the fantastic support of my partner of 16 years and my GP and RDoc also have been the best. My rheumy has been pretty aggressive in treating my RA. I'm taking mtx, pred, plaq, dynacin, embrel and pain meds as necessary. I think we have stopped the progression, but I was expecting to be completely healed by now!
I've found that when I need to complain or feel sorry for myself because of RA, a visit to this forum makes me see that my troubles are so very minor.
I wish all of you the support and help I have experienced and will be here to lend to you what I can.
Mike
Mike; welcome. We need you guys to be here for each other. Us ladies are always quick with a response; but I understand Gary's need for support from other men.
Thanks for speaking up. I hope you will join in the discussions more often.
Again, Welcome.
Welcome Mike,
I am sorry that you have to be here but you are in good company. We all are in it together.
I just remembered that we do a have another young man who just joined the group, not to long ago, his name is Steven. He is on vacation right now. So it looks like the men are starting to find us.
I am glad to hear your Rheummy is being aggresive. The sooner they get the right meds. in you the less damage to your joints. Plus it also a big positve when you have the support from your special person.
Glad you joined us and hope to hear more from you.
Take care of your self.
Toni