Slow and gradual decline

I realised in my early 30's things weren't as they should be. It didn't seem right that I was so tired and sore. I've always had issues with my skin. My grandfather, uncle, and one of my cousins had bad psoriasis and I never thought much of my skin issues.

I tended to hide my pain because at that point I was working full time, had a side business, and raising two kids, plus going through a separation.

The arthritis took over gradually and I would lie in bed at night with my body's joints burning for hours. I kept taking painkillers, but after 2 years of trying to be tough, I finally saw a rheumatologist.

After 18 months, I got the diagnosis of psoriatic arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis. My life has changed dramatically. I work part-time in admin and I wear down so quickly.

After a psoriatic arthritis diagnosis

Currently waiting for the biologics to kick in as Methotrexate didn't do enough. My stomach raged at the introduction of NSAIDs.

Luckily now I have an amazing, supportive partner, my kids and family to help and better understand such complex medical troubles.

I refuse to give up on what I want to do and keep on going.