I'm 50 years old, I'm married with 2 daughters, a stepson, and a total of 6 grandchildren. We only see 3 of them on a regular basis. The other 3 live 400 miles away.

I've been diagnosed with RA since 1982. I've had a few RA-related surgeries. I'm currently doing really well! In 2006 I had a really bad health year. I had my shoulder replacement replaced; I was in the hospital again for a respiratory infection; I had wrist surgery; I had gallbladder surgery; and I spent that Christmas in the hospital with bile duct surgery. My blood pressure started going up, and I was diagnosed with osteopenia. I decided to reclaim my health. I started eating right and exercising. I started with cardio 5 days a week, and strength training 3 days a week. I've lost a total of 65 pounds, and last year I decided to take up running. I ran my first 5K in July 2008. I've also run a half marathon, a 16 mile mountain trail race, and just recently completed my first MARATHON -- 26.2 mile!!!! My overall health has improved, and I'm loving my new found energy!!

While eating right and exercising are part of an overall healthy lifestyle, they are NOT a cure for RA. I take my meds, and I follow my doctor's advice. But with funky joints and an aging body, I'm going to make sure I'm in the best shape I can possibly be.