In Celebration of Support! Any Stories to Share?

I don’t know about you, but as I get older, I become more and more aware of how important it is to have people in my life that I can count on.

And I have to say that I’ve been counting on you. I’m coming up on four years here on Arthritis Connect, and the incredible folks here have been coming through for each other, time after time. Many of you have been here much longer than me. Wow, time flies.

I have been thinking a lot about what it means to give support and what it means to receive support.

Living with a chronic condition like arthritis isn’t an easy road. I know I’m preaching to the choir here when I say that you never know when you might hit a bump. And that means change, whether you welcome that change or not. Self-care routines change, medication regimens change. Healthcare providers change.

What do you have to hang on to when things get shaky? Your support network!

It’s just amazing to me how supportive the members of Arthritis Connect are. This is a place where you can go 24/7, post a discussion about what’s going on in your life and, chances are, receive a few words of advice, or encouragement, or both, soon thereafter.

I think I could probably come up with a long, long list of experiences I have had on this site that have had an effect on me in some way. I’ve felt really sad at times when a member has shared about a health challenge, or an unsupportive partner, or a glitch in getting the care they need. But also inspired when hearing stories of how members are facing challenges. And lots of happy moments along the way when a success has been shared.

I’ve learned a lot about living with arthritis. I learn something new here every time I tune in! And that’s helped me to help the people I’m trying to help. I hope I've been able to share a few ideas that have been helpful to you, too.

What’s amazing to me is that we come from all walks of life, from different time zones, ways of thinking about life, political beliefs, ages… Who knows, some of may have passed each other on the street and had no idea that we have already crossed paths on Arthritis Connect, and might even be friends. All of us with one common goal: to walk this road together and give each other a helping hand along the way.

I appreciate having you all in my life. And I’m honored to be part of your support network.

Now, I ‘m wondering if you want to celebrate with me by sharing how Arthritis Connect has made a difference in your life. An experience you had here that helped you during a difficult time? A victory you shared? Something you learned that you didn’t know before? Have you had the opportunity to help somebody else out here on ArthritisF Connect?

I’m all ears (eyes)!

Thank you, my friends!!!

To read more from Dr. Gary:
"Mental Vitamin D:" Dr. Gary's Tips for Relaxation, Happiness
Talking about Arthritis: Tips for Dealing with Unsupportive Family
Mindfulness Moment: Use Your Five Senses