Looking forward to sharing the journey and some mutual support

Bicyclebryan

Just seven months ago it had been so long since I had seen my GP I had actually forgotten her name. Now we are best of friends and along with a whole host of other medical professionals they have determined that I have RA.

Prior to this I ran and or cycled every day. I have cycled (as a club cyclist) all my life, hence the user name. In September last year I had the mother of all colds, 4 weeks later I started getting pain in my shoulders and upper arms. Four weeks further on and I had stopped all exercise. It all happened so fast! It has been a difficult period, mainly because of the uncertainty and the dearth of people to talk to about it.

I hope through this forum to share experiences and get a better understanding of what I have gone through and what lies ahead. In particular, I would like to engage with other cyclists and runners and hear of their experiences.

Above all I hope to engage in a mutually supportive environment and build on the hope that we all must have on our respective journies.

Poppyjane

Hello @Bicyclebryan and welcome to the online community,

You have recently been diagnosed with RA and have had a fairly rapid time of readjustment coming to terms with what was your daily routine of running and cycling . You have posted a positive message and hope to meet other members who share similar active pursuits. We are a friendly supportive group and agree with your wish to build on the hope that we all must have on our respective journeys.

https://www.versusarthritis.org/news/2021/october/london-marathon-2021-three-inspiring-runners-share-their-story/

https://www.versusarthritis.org/news/2021/april/cycling-top-tips-for-getting-into-gear/

https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/treatments/surgery/knee-replacement-surgery/#knee-replacement-surgery-_alan's-story I attach this not for the knee replacement information but for Alan's story which you may find inspiring.

Many members have shared their experiences of adjusting to their new condition of living with some form of arthritis and I hope that some will relate to yours situation. So do stay in touch and let us know how you get on.

Take care

Poppyjane

Bicyclebryan

Thank you Poppyjane. I appreciate the welcome.