1 year since my diagnosis.....................

It was a year ago this week that I was driving to Chicago with a friend to celebrate my 30th birthday. During that ride I received the call............Carrie you have Rheumatoid Arthritis and we would like you to go get some x-rays tomorrow. What a scary day, I remember every detail, down to what I was wearing. It is now a year later and I feel like a different person. I have since gotten my disease under control, lost over 30 lbs (and counting), started nursing school, found a fitness regimen I love, did some traveling and made some great plans for the future. Like everyone my year has been filled with ups and downs, but all and all this has been a wonderful year. I have learned allot about myself and people around me. I have learned that I am stronger, smarter, and kinder than I thought. I learned that having RA has helped me as a student nurse better understand pain, making me a compassionate nurse. I have also learned............I have a lot more to learn. 

    For many years a goal of mine has been to complete a marathon. To me it is the ultimate success. If you can do this you have proven to yourself you are strong, dedicated, and fit. Well, this year is going to be MY best year and I am going to try and walk a marathon. Running is not in my cards at this point, my joints will not allow it, but walking is. I am going to see a podiatrist next week in hopes they can fit me for a special shoe that will allow me to complete this goal of mine. My heart is in it, my foot is not so sure. Joint damage in my left foot leaves me in pain just after walking two short miles, and I plan to walk over 26. Cross your fingers friends, for the podiatrist is my only hope:)