When I first developed this disease, I saw a post that said, "It's a miracle I'm in so much pain and still look this good". Rheumatoid arthritis is an invisible disease, meaning you can't tell someone is suffering. Sometimes, I get stared at when I park in a disabled parking spot. All they see is a semi-young person get out of the car with no wheelchair. But if they only knew the ever-present pain all over my body, then they would understand. We can't walk around with a billboard explaining our individual disabilities, but it would be nice not to have judgmental stares.
There was a point where I tried my hardest to walk normal but could never pull it off. I'd always get, "Did you injure your knee?" from almost everyone I met. I would then mention it was RA and they would respond, "Really? At your age?" Unfortunately, this disease can hit at any age. Young and old alike can fall victims to RA. Luckily the severity of my symptoms has somewhat lessened through use of infusions and dietary changes. I'm not currently limping (I received kenalog shots in knee). I'm enjoying my limp free days right now but you never know when RA will attack a certain joint.
I live with somewhat lesser pain than I did a couple years ago. I can do a few more things, but like I mentioned before, the pain is ever present...just not as intense as before. The infusions make me tired and have their own side effects that I have to deal with. If it's not one thing...it's another.
So when you see a person park in a disabled parking spot (without the use of a walker/wheelchair) please don't judge. They might be in great pain and trying to make the best of their day. To my fellow RA fighters, stay beautiful and strong!!!!!
