Arthritis Insight-Member Stories-Samantha

Samantha's Story

My name is Samantha a 28 year-old who has had ra and fibro for the past eleven years. since i have chronic ra i been using a wheelchair for the past seven years and only a year ago i got my knees and a hip replace and still got a way to go. its not been an easy road even though, my doctor expects me to run a marathon. though last year after my last surgery i was diagnose with having a weak heart. my doctor told me it was all due to the prednisone (large doses for 13 years) i've been taking. so that's another thing i deal with. i just got to keep a close eye on my salt in take, drink plenty of water, make sure i take plenty of potassium daily. don't want to have another close call. as far as my ra and fibro one thing i've learn is not to over do it, not to worry about stuff and rest, rest, rest specially when feeling sick.

my home life, i been married for nine years but knows me for fifteen i consider him my soul mate. he is a very supportive and, this also includes my son who is six. they been so wonderful that i just can seem to thank them enough. my husband has gone through it all with me and at time can't believe he is still married to me.

i learn some many things while on this road, like you learn to appreciates the small stuff and that life is pretty good.

i feel one should always have a passion in life something you enjoy doing with others and by yourself. it makes life a little more enjoyable specially when having a hard day. my is going fishing with my husband and child. i can't fish any longer but to see them catch a fish or at least try to, gives me a get deal of pleasure. i guess that's one thing i really learn is to watch others . i wish i could do the same things but I'm not bitter it.