Introduction

General Blog
1

I suppose I have had psoriasis since I was a teen, but didn't know it. I have always had rough hands, more like a working man that a girl, and oh my goodness my feet!! I always thought it was just that I had really tough, thick calluses. They were ugly, and they would crack and hurt sometimes. I thought that I must just not be using a pumice stone enough, or something. I would soak them, shave off calluses, and pumice them for ages. But it never made any real difference, and usually only led to more cracks. My Dad had feet like mine, as does my brother. So I just always thought is was our family's "thing." Our "funky feet." A couple of months ago, my hands and feet got a lot worse. Then, my nails got involved. And now... it looks like I'm in a full blown flare of psoriatic arthritis.

After going back and forth to the dermatologist, rheumatologist, and my family physician all summer, I'm about to start Humira. I'm nervous, but hopeful. I'm lucky to have a wonderful husband who is staying on top of the things at home that I can't handle right now. I think I'm most worried about my job. Not sure how this is going to play out, and I teach 2nd grade. That takes lots of energy, and energy is in really short supply these days for me.

I'm glad to have found a group that seems to be active, supportive and knowledgeable. Look forward to getting to "know" y'all.

2

Papillon, you've got a challenge ahead of you, with second graders and a new diagnosis, but you are so very fortunate to have been diagnosed quickly, and to have a rheumatologist who seems to be starting you on early and aggressive treatment. For that, be grateful!

3

Hi Papillon! I was always (and still am) worried about work. I feel very lucky that things have worked out well. That’s not to say I haven’t hit some rough patches, rather that when I have they haven’t jeopardized my work. Hang in there and try not to worry as it will only increase your suffering. Glad you have a supportive SO to help out!

4

Having someone to talk to who really DOES understand , can make all the difference in the world. There are some great people on the boards here so take advantage and get connected. Good luck to you--I hope the Humira helps you.