Psoriatic Arthritis: An Unwelcome Surprise
One thing I’ve learned in my many years of living with an autoimmune disease is to expect the unexpected. After a rather miserable 2022, coupled with a rheumatologist who was not open to my questions…
On Becoming a Writer
Growing up, I never once considered writing as a hobby, much less as a part-time career. In college, my freshman English class required original essays a couple times a week, and I remember the pain…
You’re Never Too Old to Learn!
I spent the last year and a half writing my latest book about an autoimmune disease that affects far too many people. Much of that time was spent researching more material to help me learn…
5 Ways to Decrease Anxiety & Manage Stress
Four years ago as I began this article, stress threatened to consume my life. My younger brother died the year before after refusing to continue treatment for his kidney disease. My dear friend, Carlene, was…
Rheumatoid Arthritis Basic Nutrition
Numerous books exist on rheumatoid arthritis nutrition, so I won’t get too involved with good or bad foods for RA patients. What is most important is staying away from foods that create inflammation. Each person is…
New Book on Rheumatoid Arthritis to Come
I haven’t posted here in awhile – with good reason. For the past several months, I’ve been hard at work on my new book on rheumatoid arthritis. Once all edits and beta readers are finished,…
Why We All Need a Bucket List
Remember the movie, “The Bucket List?” Unlikeable but wealthy, the character played by Jack Nicholson believed his cancer was incurable. He refused to accept that such a horrible fate might be his future and could…
What’s Next After a Diagnosis of Rheumatoid Arthritis
The diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is often heard by the patient as something life-threatening or, at least, life-altering. Life-altering may be true, but RA is a diagnosis that can usually be managed if you…
Finding the Tiny Gold Locket
Several days ago, I grabbed at a plastic “junk” container sitting on top of my desk. It held paper clips, pens and pencils and sticky notes, and I unintentionally dumped it in the center of…
Cheers to My New Rheumatologist
Blessings and cheers to my new rheumatologist! After many years of treatment for RA by another specialist, I reached my limit! In early May, I visited a new rheumatologist. This gentleman appeared friendly and pleasant…