I’ve always been an active girl. I loved sports, and enjoyed camping too. I ate healthy and paid attention to my weight. I always believed in volunteering, so I became a volunteer staff in the church in my town.

It was 2015 when I first noticed my symptoms. My joint pain and stiffness were so severe that I couldn’t get out of bed on my own. My entire life flipped, because I couldn’t do what I love — be active and adventurous. I couldn’t even go back to church, because my mobility was compromised.

I consulted with an IM initially but was later had to refer to a rheumatologist for my pain. He diagnosed me with rheumatoid arthritis, a chronic inflammatory bone disease. I knew I had to control its spread in my body before it got out of my hand. I started treatment immediately.

I was prescribed with methotrexate and naproxen first. When the results weren’t satisfactory, I started with etanercept instead, which gave me better results. I had to eat more fish and vegetables, and less meat. Since I have always been an active person, the doctor advised me to drink more water and walk briskly every day to improve my condition.

This treatment was a big help to me, not only because it was effective, but because it suited my budget as well. As time passed, my joint pain and stiffness disappeared. I was back to climbing the stairs on my own, at my own pace. I will be resuming my job next month and will stay active despite my rheumatoid arthritis!