Do you approach everything from a bitter or dismal place because of your condition? Is there are a dark cloud surrounding you at all times? Do you take everything “the wrong way” because you are so on-edge and defensive of your illness? Is your main “identifier” that of a sick person? Has living with chronic … Continue reading
Tag Archives: Mid Atlantic Arthritis Foundation
Broken Dolls: The Things and People We Keep, Flaws and All ~ by Ashley Boynes
I’m not a hoarder. I do keep things, though, that are of great sentimental value. One of these many “things” is, to me, not just a “thing” but a very real part of my life. Her name is Winnie. She is a 27-year-old Cabbage Patch Kid doll. She is dirty. Her hair is braided in … Continue reading
“The Others” – What Do Our Healthy Friends & Family Members Feel About Our Arthritis? – by Ashley Boynes
Sometimes living with arthritis affects “innocent bystanders” nearly as much as it affects those of us living with it, but sadly they often get left by the wayside in the hurricane of all that comes with dealing with a chronic illness. We, as the patients, want to only view our condition from our own personal … Continue reading
Do Your Thing: Choosing Arthritis Treatments That Work For YOU!
When you live with a chronic illness, EVERYONE becomes a “doctor” and seems to think that they have the right to tell you what you should and should not do. It can become baffling when everyone you know is offering their home remedies, their experiences with medications, names of doctors, alternative therapies, stories good and … Continue reading
Rheumatoid Arthritis: Why Don’t People “Get It?”
There are many misconceptions surrounding rheumatoid arthritis. I’ve posted blogs here and there about the issue, patient advocate and “A-list” RA blogger Kelly Young a.k.a. Rheumatoid Arthritis Warrior has posted blogs and aired PSA’s about it, and, naturally the Arthritis Foundation has tons and tons of information that offers in-depth detail about what, exactly, rheumatoid … Continue reading
Dr. Elizabeth Lombardo: Telling Arthritis Patients to be a “Happy You” in Spite of Chronic Pain – by Ashley Boynes
When I had the opportunity to have a conversation with the renowned Dr. Elizabeth Lombardo, I knew that I was in for a treat. Dr. Lombardo, who is a clinical psychologist AND physical therapist, helps patients to “enjoy less stress & more happiness, regardless of what else is going on in your life.” She specializes … Continue reading
Ashley’s Journey to Wellness – Entry #23 – Embracing Arthritis & Autoimmune Illness
Journey to Wellness – Entry #23 – Friday, August 25, 2010 I hope that this entry finds you all well! I’m “hanging in there,” so to speak and enjoying these last couple of weeks of summer! This has been a busy, productive, and lovely week! I found the wedding dress of my dreams, and plans … Continue reading
Arthritis and Chronic Illness – We Have It, It Doesn’t Have Us! – Ashley Boynes
Life with chronic illness is tough. But we have arthritis, it doesn’t have us. The same goes for any condition or disability that you might be fighting …. from fibromyalgia, to diabetes, celiac disease, to multiple sclerosis, to lupus, scleroderma, ankylosing spondylitis, myositis, felty’s syndrome, sjogren’s, thyroid disease, bipolar disorder, cancer, and more. There are … Continue reading
Ashley’s Journey to Wellness – Entry #22 – Through Sickness and In Health
Journey to Wellness – Entry #22 – Friday, August 13, 2010 It has been awhile since I have written. I have been busy with doctor’s appointments, traveling, enjoying my summer, and….getting engaged. You know, the norm 😉 Yes, this arthritic ring finger now has a dazzling ring on it. Simple yet sparkly, a lovely, beautiful … Continue reading