This afternoon, I went to an event for psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. It was inspiring to be able to talk to other people – many of them young people – who are living with chronic autoimmune conditions, and doing it as best they can. However, a common thread that I notice in talking with people … Continue reading
Tag Archives: advocacy
Joys and Pains: A Rheumatoid Arthritis Poem – by Ashley Boynes-Shuck
For today’s blog post, I would like to do something a little different, and share with you all a poem that I wrote about life with rheumatoid arthritis and other rheumatic conditions/chronic illnesses. It is called Joys and Pains. Please enjoy! “Unrelenting pain and never-ceasing fatigue. Hurts and aches in every place. Wondering at times, … Continue reading
Speak Up for Arthritis! Don’t Let Congress Cut Funding! by Ashley Boynes-Shuck
Your time to “do something” is now. Please, speak up for arthritis and all who live with it on a daily basis. If we don’t act, Congress WILL cut arthritis research. No ifs, ands, or buts about it. Congress plans to cut $1.2 trillion in federal spending by November 2011. If we do not tell … Continue reading
The Great Debate: Alcohol and Arthritis by Ashley Boynes-Shuck
Like all great debates, there are opinions — and evidence — on both sides of the “alcohol and arthritis” issue. Some studies show that moderate alcohol intake is actually good for arthritis/inflammation….but many people with the conditions say that drinking worsens their symptoms. Of course, there are also the medications — many of which state … Continue reading
Kim Kardashian and Psoriasis: Can Star Power Spread Awareness? by Ashley Boynes-Shuck
Kim Kardashian — even if you can’t stand her, you know the name. She’s kind of one of those enigmatic figures that you either love, or hate. However, whether you like her or not, there’s no denying her star power. Sure, she may be a celebrity for reasons unknown to many, but, the point is … Continue reading
The “Intangibles” of Rheumatoid Arthritis & Chronic Illness by Ashley Boynes-Shuck
Living with any illness is a challenge; but having an “invisible” illness is especially difficult. How can you make people understand your condition when your symptoms and your disabilities are often hidden? Yesterday, I had a rare weak moment where I was very much struggling to stay positive. Since we’re all human and entitled to … Continue reading
An “Arthritis Ashley” Update: Marriage, Lupus, and Loving Life! – Ashley’s Health Diary – Entry #29 – by Ashley Boynes-Shuck
July 15, 2011 It has been a while since I’ve written in my online “Health Diary” and updated you all on my health progress and how I’ve been, and so I figured that I am well overdue! First off, I’m now a Mrs! I got married to the love of my life, Mike, on the … Continue reading
There’s Always Rheum to Be Social! Online Support for Arthritis – by Ashley Boynes-Shuck
Many folks with rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, myositis, and other related rheumatic conditions may have a hard time getting “out and about” to socialize. Friendships and relationships may take a toll; some are unable to work or attend school any longer. So, to avoid the isolation, loneliness, and depression that can often come with a disability … Continue reading
PHOTOS: NASCAR driver & JA Survivor Todd Peck wants you to know, Kids Get Arthritis, Too! – by Ashley Boynes-Shuck
The Juvenile Arthritis Conference boasts a lot of cool events and activities, but this goes a step above and beyond! NASCAR driver Todd Peck, who lives with Juvenile Arthritis himself, attended the JA Conference and was kind enough to get photos with some fellow JA kids and teens. Additionally, he and his team had his … Continue reading
The Juvenile Arthritis Conference is Underway! by Ashley Boynes-Shuck
Arthritis is Unacceptable….and Juvenile Arthritis is even more Unacceptable! Did you know that Kids Get Arthritis, Too? Every year, the Arthritis Foundation organizes a national Juvenile Arthritis Conference during the month of July, which is JA Awareness Month. Over 300,000 children in the United States live with a form of Juvenile Arthritis, and it is … Continue reading