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Anisah's Story

anisah@sympatico.ca 

I am 40 years old and a (now) single mother of an active little girl. At the age of 26 I experienced autoimmune related symptoms, a positive RF, ANA, some bleeding problems like petechia, and lots of neurological symptoms. Both MS and Lupus were suspected at the time. I was left with a drop foot and wear a foot-drop splint on my left foot (brace), but a diagnosis was not confirmed. Then after my daughter was born, about four years ago, I noticed problems with painful swelling in different areas of my body. My doctor xrayed my foot once and asked me if I had arthritis - I laughed and said no. Then a few months later my routine annual blood work indicated a RF of 275 and I visited a Rheumatologist. She told me I probably had RA and started me on Plaquinel and Naproxin - this was about two years ago. Since then she has confirmed the diagnosis of RA, Fibromyaligia and Sjogren's. I now take Imuran. Aside from the fatigue and painful joints, I experience a lot of neurological symptoms like numbness and suspected blood vessel involvement.

Although my family and friends are wonderful, and my faith in God keeps me strong, discovering this site has been a great blessing and has enriched my life. I have learned a lot from others about the disease and about their experiences with it. I don't feel alone anymore with the pain and mobility problems.

My heartfelt thanks go to everyone here, much love and appreciation, and good health to you all,
Anisah