To hear someone say, "it is all in their head", only tells me where my headache is.

What is in the head, in my opinion, is how we manage the pain. I was diagnosed with RA a little less than two years ago. My medications have helped immensely, but the problem is not gone. I have good days and bad days. I am learning to make choices that help me manage the pain.

I own and operate a business. My pain situation will help me decide what my business activities are for the day. If my feet are swollen, I will not be out in the field. I will handle things by telephone and internet. If I am having hand/wrist issues, I will contract out the manual side of production.

I avoid situations where people will "pity" me, because that itself will create more pain. The best way to live normal life is to live a "normal" life. It is easier said than done, and I am still learning.

GW