Star’s journey: Living with Psoriatic Arthritis

05/12/2026

Last week, I had an appointment with my rheumatologist. He explained that, since it has been a few years since I had any X-rays of my hands, he would like to order them now. I am curious myself to see how my right hand looks on the inside in comparison to how it looked before surgery. He also ordered bloodwork, including Sedimentation Rate and C-Reactive Protein, which are both tests that check for inflammation in the body. The results of my hand X-rays are rather confusing to me. I have read over the results numerous times, and it seems like the doctor who read my X-rays is indicating that I have had both of my hands operated on. I wish I had the actual images to go along with the written results.

05/11/2026

I hope all of the women had a wonderful and blessed Mother’s Day 💝

04/29/2026

Back in February, I had five weeks of iron infusions due to iron deficiency anemia. Oral iron supplements never seem to be effective for me. My most recent labs, shown below, are from two days ago, April 27th. As everyone can see for themselves, my levels are not improved. Hilman’s Center for Oncology and Hematology called me this morning to inform me that my doctor has ordered more iron infusions 😔😩

💥I’m not even ready to discuss the results of my Comp Test or my CBC/ Diff. Both of them came back abnormal which seems to be MY normal💥

04/14/2026

Physical therapy for my knee finished up earlier than expected, and I'm thrilled to start physical therapy for my right shoulder. I'm keeping fingers crossed that I can postpone surgery for my rotator cuff. I know that there's always going to be somebody else somewhere that has or had it worse than me, but I also realize that my situation is unique and my emotions are valid. It's essential to acknowledge that everyone's journey is different, and what may have worked for me may not work for others. Let's listen without judgment and offer support without unsolicited advice. Sometimes, all we need is someone to listen and offer a shoulder to lean on. Chronic illness can be overwhelming, but I'm determined to stay positive and focus on my healing journey. I'm taking things one step at a time, and I'm grateful for the support of my loved ones. This coming June will make four years of surgeries, but I'm not letting that define me. I'm looking forward to getting back to work and finding a new sense of purpose. I know that I may not be able to work a traditional forty-hour work week, but I'm okay with that. I'm focusing on finding a balance that works for me and my family. I'm not naive about the fact that I will face challenges along the way, but I'm ready to face them head-on. I'm an advocate for myself, and I'm determined to make my voice heard. I'm not just a survivor; I'm a thriver. I'm rising above my challenges, and I'm finding joy in the journey. I'm grateful for the support of my loved ones, and I'm proud of myself for staying positive and focused on my healing. I know that I can get through anything as long as I have the right mindset and the support of those around me.

04/12/2026

02/26/2026

I had my follow-up appointment with cardiology yesterday. My appointment was with Lauren, Physician Assistant. She wasn't overly thrilled with my most recent lab work. Platelets continue to be extremely elevated. Hemoglobin levels continue to drop rapidly, to 8.3. If it drops below 8, I'll be needing another blood transfusion. Today's iron infusion is number 2; only two more to go after this one. Physical therapy is next, from 5pm until around 6pm this evening. Makes for a very long day for me 😴🛌

02/25/2026

I had my follow-up appointment with my doctor yesterday. He had to remind me that I'm only three weeks out from my surgery. According to him, I'm actually a little further ahead with my recovery in comparison to the recovery process of my right knee. The range of motion is very good. We discussed the pain that I'm still having. A lot of my pain seems to be from my neuropathy. There's moderate soft tissue pain at the knee itself. He asked me what I'm currently taking for my neuropathy. I've been taking 300mg of Gabapentin in the morning, evening, and at bedtime. I couldn't even remember how many years it's been since I was first prescribed it. It does absolutely nothing. Nada 👎 He switched me to Lyrica, 75mg capsule, 2 times a day. Lyrica - anyone else have experience with taking this medication? Pros? Cons?

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