Hiya Jeff,

I understand the nervous energy, and the great unknown feeling. You will sometimes feel like your life is not your own at times. Then happy, then sad. Then happy again, then sad. I did shed a few tears my last day. And a few since then also. Life is like a roller coaster eh!
I know for sure though I am where I should be at this point in my life, although it doesn't seem ideal. I don't know where I will be next year, but just trust that its the right place. I hope you get to that point of accepting your situation, what ever it may be.....Trust

Some truth in that. I don't want to be defined as disabled

Congratulations and best wishes as you begin this new stage. You expressed yourself so well, how there are so many emotions involved. All the best to you and let us know how it goes. : )

Jeff: Glad to hear you have taken a new path in life to improve your health. Please, dont beat yourself up over not working. Most of us have to modify our lifestyles so we have less pain. I quit work last May and I still miss it, but I don't get as many infections and I am coping much better with the disease now.

Relax, rest, do your hobbies, exercise and spend time with your friends and family. When you feel better- you can always volunteer or help out family and or friends.

Hope to see you more on kickas .

Shari

Good luck, Jeff. Hope your 'retirement' is everything you are hoping for. Relax for a bit (other than the filing issue), then make a list of things to do...now that you hope to have the energy to do them.

As for the Enbrel not making it the whole week....maybe try the twice weekly dosing. It helped me. Or maybe it was that I started back on Mobic (the only NSAID that ever helped, though only for 2 months)....hmmm.

Big hugs to you.

I wish you luck, Jeff. It is totally weird after a lifetime of working to not have a job anymore, to walk out and know you won't be going back, I know. Enjoy the time, de-stress, and find something new to keep your mind and hands occupied - something you enjoy!!

Warm Hugs,

Hi Sue

Thanks for your concern, you know I don't know what I would do without my KA family. A lot of people think we all want to jump on the "disability train" as quick as we can. I have worked about 2 years in horrific pain every day...unrelenting. I just kept telling myself that tomorrow will be a better day, more often then not it was not. I did not do much today until later in the day. Hope you are as pain free as possible. Thanks Sue.

Thanks Donna,

I think it will be a big adjustment for my wife too. I was able to lay down this afternoon under an electric blanket, that really helped to get a few things done later on. I hope I have lost a few more pounds, won't know until I go to the doctor in May. Hope I will be able to do some gardening this year. Take Care Donna

Thanks cemc,

It was nice today not having as much pain. I was able to space out my pain medication a little better today. Didn't watch the clock much waiting for another round of pain pills. Thanks for your kind words.

Thanks Fonzy,

I remember when you went on disability, I was really shocked. Has it really been 3 years??? Wow...where does the time go. Glad you didn't endure financial hardship. Thanks John

Hi Lon

I am sure I will be busy. The "Honey Do" list never goes away. My dog "Nettie" is such a sweet heart, she makes sure I do not rest too long. Good Luck with your new little friend!