Just because this week is short doesn’t mean it hasn’t gone by slow. Between shopping for Thanksgiving on Sunday, complaining to a doctor about my ailments on Monday, and Tuesday, being overwhelmed at the job – I am ready to call it a week. However, my week is not over. Still have to deal with all the last minute duties of the job prior to a four-day holiday weekend, still have to deal with a lavish Thanksgiving dinner, still have to inform my family that I have rheumatoid arthritis, and last, I have to find a specialist to monitor my condition. I thought that I would be relieved to find out why I was in so much pain, but now, I am worried about how it will affect the ones I love.

Unfortunately, the cause of rheumatoid arthritis is unknown and there no cure. In some cases, patients may not experience symptoms for long periods of time. However, once RA causes pain and flare ups that are diagnosable, it has the potential to cause joint destruction and functional disability.

I have done my research and am still waiting for more test results, and even though the waiting and the anticipating has been difficult, feeling that I am not in control of my world is even worse. I have spent my whole life trying to be this superwoman caring for everyone around me and now, I feel disappointed that I can no longer do that.

Even though there is no cure, scientists all over the world are studying new areas of treatment, including those that stop the inflammation factors of RA. Scientists are also researching new methods for earlier diagnosis and more accurate treatment. Also, early treatment of RA results in better outcomes, so I am hopeful. I am young and I have a long road ahead of me.

In the meantime, I am going to enjoy the holidays and make the best of what God has given me. I have so much to be grateful for, RA won’t stop me.