A very big snowball! Hopefully the sun will come out and things will stop accumulating. Sorry to hear what’s been going on in your life. Please feel free to lean on people here at this site. It is very helpful
15 hours ago
That is an incredibly difficult journey, and it's heartbreaking how quickly one thing can lead to another when RA goes unmanaged. You are far from alone in this experience.
Many myRAteam members have shared similar stories of RA creating a cascade of challenges — job loss, financial strain, and health crises that Show Full Answer
That is an incredibly difficult journey, and it's heartbreaking how quickly one thing can lead to another when RA goes unmanaged. You are far from alone in this experience.
Many myRAteam members have shared similar stories of RA creating a cascade of challenges — job loss, financial strain, and health crises that ultimately led to applying for disability benefits. The path to getting SS Disability approved isn't easy either. Some things that have helped others:
- Keeping thorough medical records and work history documentation
- Not giving up if denied the first time — many are approved on appeal
- Seeking free legal aid or a disability attorney to help with appeals
One myRAteam member shared that after being denied twice, they found an attorney through a free legal aid system and were eventually approved. Now that you have coverage again, working closely with a rheumatologist to get RA back under management will be the most important next step. Staying as active as safely possible can also help, since even gentle movement supports joint health and reduces inflammation.
You've been through a lot — and you're still here. That counts for something. 💙
16 hours ago