That's a hard one Mrs B. How much do you enjoy your present job? If it is really great then it makes it hard to leave but if it is just a job that might make it simpler. Clearly RA is not going to go away and we never know when it might flare up so logic would suggest that anything to lessen the strain on you physically might be sensible. I am amazed that you can manage 12 hour shifta as well as lengthy travelling times, given how tired RA makes us feel. If you decide against the change, how likely is there to be a similar opportunity further down the line?
I'm sure you will get lots of opinions from here. Good luck with whatever you decide
Sue

Hi Clare

A difficult one ... but one I think you are considering before you even ask the question! The answer as Lorna suggests comes down to gut feeling. Each one of us is very different and only you know how well controlled your disease is. No-one knows what's around the corner, thank goodness. All sorts of things to weigh up. How much longer will you be working before you retire? Would it perhaps be possible to carry on your current job on less hours, it would be a waste to lose your experience if they can accommodate you? Then of course the points others have raised such as travelling tiime etc.

No answer I'm afraid. Back to gut feeling!

Lyn x

I am pleased that you are feeling good enough to cope with such long hours. I agree with follwing your gut instint. When I was first diagnosed (that terrible time when the future looks so bleak..) the Specialist looked at my shoes (lovely, kitten heels with pointy toes, sling back) and said something along the lines of .. You won't be wearing those soon. I went home, ordered track shoes and clogs, and re-cyled my ALL my lovely shoes to Oxfam. Mistake! 3 years on, and I would not be able to wear them, or the others, for a day, but I would still be able to wear them if I was going out to dinner.

We need to be aware of what MIGHT be coming, but at the same time, we should be enjoying the day.