Patients and families can find hope and make an impact on the search for a cure.
A rheumatic disease diagnosis is frightening, but many patients have found hope through the Foundation’s work. Patients who get involved play a direct role in the future of rheumatology. Their involvement and financial contributions raise awareness and increase funding for important efforts that could lead to a cure.
“Lilly has had a few rough patches with juvenile arthritis and hospital stays.”
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"A few months after Ruth and I got engaged, complications from lupus put Ruth in the hospital."
"Before I was diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis and adult onset Still’s disease, a rheumatologist told me that I might need assistance walking."
"When I was practically crawling, I went to a rheumatologist who diagnosed me with severe rheumatoid arthritis."
“After several years and five medications, I finally found a treatment that works for me.”
“My rheumatologist ran blood work, which finally gave me an answer: mixed connective tissue disease.”
“About 9 months after my rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis, I went into remission. Then, a lump the size of a softball appeared on my chest."
“Rheumatoid arthritis runs in my family.”
"I feel relatively decent most days, but I haven't gotten to a place where I can work out, run or even lift weights again."
“I have had to give up so many things like a teaching career, hiking, and skiing.”
“It is very hard to get an appointment at my rheumatologist’s practice."
“I was so relieved to finally have someone listen to me. That saw past my age and listened.“
“We’d love to think that the cure is around the corner."
“My kids distract me while I do my injections.”
"When I first started experiencing symptoms, I was told I had growing pains."
“I don’t want my daughters or my grandchildren to ever have to deal with this disease.”
“I have Anklyosing Spondylitis and every joint in my body is affected.”
“No child or adult should ever live in a city without access to a rheumatologist.”
“It has been a journey to find what works for me regarding the management of inflammation.”
“One of the hardest things is taking all the medications I need.”
“My first symptom of rheumatic disease was a bump on my right hand. It turned out to be a synovial cyst.”
“It is depressing, frustrating, painful and exhausting.”
“I realized quickly that I was living with a silent disease.”
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