Jenni, I always find this a delicate situation.

It is really quite often, that I see a person, who I am quite certain has RA. The hands are a very telling sign. I am dying to ask them, if they are a sufferer, but I usually shy away, fearing I might embarrass them. Only yesterday I was browsing in our local Red Cross book shop, and the male assistant had very deformed hands and a limp. Would I dare to ask him? I am afraid, I did'nt. and this is how I usually react. Am I being a coward, worried about being rejected?

It is another thing, when you are waiting inthe rheum dept., there I often strike up a conversation with the person next to me. I did that this morning. Unfortunately my appointment was a waste of time. My bloodtests done 0n 24th sept. were lost, so I have no idea, how I am doing at the moment. It is rather important, as I am on Cimzia, and the consultant is talking about changing me to Rituximab, which I have no appetite for.


Merete

That's a really good thought - I'll keep my eyes open and try to spread the word- Sylvia xx

I was at hospital, none looking like they have arthritis.....the waiting area is shared with cancer treatment. Some were hooked up with a drip, and away with their thoughts (so sad).

I do have a look at people's hands when I'm out and about (but I haven't asked anyone).
I have a giggle though, I'm so slow on walking stick and love it when older people over take me with their zimmers or sticks...inspires me to try and go faster!

Jane
X

Hi, I chat to a few folk with ra whan I go for infusions, I have just presumed they are already aquainted with the nras as they all seem to have well established disease.
Will bring it up in conversation next time I go!
I've never asked anyone outright if they have ra when out and about though I do spot people who I think may have it, must get chating more.
Zena x

i was asked if i was at kickboxing when wearng my splints,made my day,good idea in theory

Oh, I think pugs are adorable. They are so muscly but tiny, like living teddy bears - I've just noticed that you've got them on your profile, that's a nice lapful!! My cavalier king charles was meant to be small but has grown so big that she overflows my lap on all sides, but she still tries to get on at every opportunity.

Dogs are great - Sylvia xx

Oh Barbara, it's lovely to hear you have pugs too !!

I will have a look at Pug Village, sounds really good I have had pugs for about sixteen years, and now have two three year olds called Nelson and Phoebe, not related one was rescued at seventeen months and Phoebe came to me when she was ten weeks. These two aren t as laid back as all the others, but lots of good fun and keep me company and sane sometimes too You must fill me in on yours, Aldi has a pug on the box of their dog biscuits, and they love them too, Phoebe can be a bit fussy in that department.

Julia xx

yep i am an animal lover more dogs than others,my boy is so sloppy,not a fighter think more lover but does get ott if any one gets to close on a walk,i am on my own so he thinks he has to protect,its fine but i do like to stop and chat,he doesnt growl all the time but i tend to go with him,ie-if hes not happy . and it has saved me from a few scares i must admit,with the ra he is so good at helping me and has sensed not to pull too hard,dorothy