Hello, I was diagnosed on the 26th March, but it has taken me four years of pain, going to and fro to the doctor to get here. I used to commute to London every day (6 hours travel) and was told ‘your over 50 what do you expect’. Due to Easter and the surgery being fully booked, I was not able to see my GP until 3rd April. So, I spent Easter reading up about Methotrexate and Hydroxychloroquine and the side effects, which scared the heck out of me. I was told not to take the Methotrexate as my Dr suspected I might have skin cancer. Today, I get a call form Dr to say that my blood tests show I have diabetes. My husband is not well either as he has OCD and all this has distressed him greatly. I am the one who is supposed to be strong for both of us. Our house is on the market and we were looking forward to starting a new life in Europe together. I find myself angry, sad, confused, powerless, on longer in control of my life. I know I have to hang on but I am finding it hard. I know I should be positive, it could be worse. I have lived a charmed life so far, but why do things have to go in threes?

Thank you Jane for your kind thoughts. I must apologise, I was having a very low 'why me' moment last night.
I know I should stay positive and focus on the future. I will try to let the doctors do the worrying for me and enjoy each day as it comes. N

Hi Nereide,

I`m so sorry you have been hit with a "triple whammy." Don`t beat yourself up about having a "why me" low moment : you are entitled! I was diagnosed over 7 years ago now, and it took me ages to see any light at the end of the tunnel.

I can`t really offer any advice, other than to take one day at a time - difficult, I know - and don`t give up on your plans just yet, until treatment has had a chance to work. There are drugs out there, it`s a case of finding the right one - I was in a wheelchair at one point, fairly soon after diagnosis, but no longer need one now, and haven`t for a while. If you read Paula`s Blog, it might help you.

Do take care, and keep posting.

Kathleen x

Thank you Lisa and Kathleen for your support. I have been reading other posted messages and I now know that I am not alone, others have gone through what I an feeling right now. I had an appointment with the Rhumy nurse on the 30th May but I decided to take control and called them today. She was fantastic and has found space for me tomorrow. I am almost excited that I am going to have my questions answered and to have a care package explained. Feeling much more positive. Thank you, Nereide

Hi Nereide,

Just a quick mail to say I hope your appointment went well - and so pleased you managed to get one!

Do let us know how you got on - and don`t ever be afraid to post when you feel low : we all know what you are going through.

Take care,

Kathleen x