Angela Reinhart
35 years old, but I feel 95
2 beautiful boys that I am incredibly blessed with
1 doctor that told me “some people just have back pain”
2007 diagnoses of Lupus
1 rheumatologist that would say “Hmm….well that didn’t work, what would you like to try next?”
2011 diagnoses of AS
1 rheumatologist that believes in me and is trying his best to heal me
4 months on Enbrel
6 months on Methotrexate
3 months on Plaquenil
2 weeks on Lyrica
1 Cortisone shot in the back
4 rounds of Physical Therapy
2 treatments from a Chiropractor that was supposed to “cure” my Sacroiliac Joint Pain
1,000,000,000 other treatments that never work
In this number game stands a girl who is riddled with pain and but takes in every moment she can, smiles, and laughs – this was the life I was given and I am determined to find the joy in every day. My children are my strength and in that strength I am determined to live a long and healthy life. I know that one day my spine will be shaped like a candy cane and that my ability to run and play with my grandchildren will be quite limited, but I will continue to smile, laugh, and take in every moment I can. AS does not define me, it has changed me, but it will never define me.
Illinois United States Of America
Dear Angela,
I loved your number game! You are right AS doesn’t define who we are, it just changes us. We can still make our lives enjoyable, you just have to do it. I make every simple thing into something big. When my grandchildren come to visit, we eat on colorful plates and bright color glasses I bought just for them. It makes the simplest of joys life changing.
Thank you for sharing your story with us.
Sincerely Cookie
I see you all the time, but would never know the underlying pain you deal with. You always have a smile on your face, and it’s quite clear those boys of yours are your strength, pride, and joy. I am amazed by you and want to be just like you when I grow up! Give em’ hell girl!
Stacey Scott
I love this!! Thank you for sharing!