Back in October 1997, I was diagnosed with R.A, which is why I had to give up working. Trying hard to come to terms with not being able to work or do a job I thoroughly enjoyed, was very hard at first. I have it in my right hand, right knee and two little toes. On some day's, my joints are so painful, that simple everyday things are a like a major chore to me, at other times, it's bearable and I am able to do some things I might be able to do the things that I couldn't do the day before.

      I refuse to let it get the better of me, and fight it everyday, I refuse to let it get me down, depressed or miserable, and try to keep busy.

      My knee joint can be replaced, if in time, they have to amputate my little toes, at least one thing, it will save on the nail varnish!

      Ulcerative colitis is still a problem to me, but I have learnt to live with it. I am fortunate enough to have a great person like Graham, who understands and is very sympathetic when it flares up. If you would like further information on this, you can read about it here http://www.nacc.org.uk/content/home.asp

      My only regret is that some employers, even these days, tend to view the fact that I haven't been able to work for a few years, would be a burden on their company, Although a lot of companies these days, accommodate people like myself and know we are still useful, there are still many more out that that would help by having more training when it comes to employing people with disabilities. There are many disabled people, like myself, whom would love to be able to find work, even if they have to have a change of career and would be an asset to their company, maybe in time, more companies will recognise this.

      Why not add you name to the current petition to campaign to have specialist nurses http://www.nacc.org.uk/content/nurses/petition.asp

      Updated July 2005 - It seems I also may have arthritis in my left shoulder; it had been very painful for a couple of months, restricting me from doing normal stuff some days. I am currently waiting for results of more tests and x-rays. With drugs prescribed (Methotrexate) http://www.patient.co.uk/showdoc/30002282/

      Tramodal, http://www.patient.co.uk/showdoc/30002834/

      Things have calmed down a bit, although the Methotrexate is making my hair thin out and it means regular trips to the GP for monitoring, with regular blood tests. The Tramodal makes me sleepy, but regardless it does help.

      Nevertheless, I am soldiering on, refusing to let the foreign cells that are invading my body and keeping positive.


      This set made exclusively for Lauren.