Evelyn Turner

10/04/02: Evelyn Turner

Arthritis arrived in 1970 when I was 26 yrs old with a toddler and a new baby. The first problem came straight away with the stopping of breast-feeding in order to start painkillers and anti-inflammatories. I hated the sense of failure it gave me, however no long-lasting harm was done.

After my first visit to the Consultant Rheumatologist, I had my "Post Pregnancy Rheumatoid Arthritis" diagnosis confirmed and received the news that it may clear up after 6 months, or it may not!!!!!

Foolishly I decided against making any changes to my way of living, dressing, housework or activities; after months of needless discomfort I made several adaptations from flat shoes through easy care and wear clothes to household and car gadgets, stopped riding horses and took up Bridge and Mah-Jong. Life became a lot easier, especially with my splints on.

In the late 1970's I had radioactive Yttrium injected into my knees to see if it would help; it didn't. This procedure is no longer used. In the early1980's I had operations on both elbows to "tidy them up a bit", one was lined with a ligament from my leg. Again, this procedure is discontinued as the progress of surgical techniques has advanced.

Several voluntary jobs took up my spare time, but gradually these have been reduced to one namely, the chairmanship of the Bucks and Berks Arthritis Self-Help Group.

Over the last 20 years my knees have been replaced twice, plus a new hip, 2 new elbows, a wrist and one knuckle all put in and working perfectly. Each operation improved my quality of life and reduced the pain level.

Since getting R.A. I have managed to travel to New Zealand, Australia, America, China, Canada, Iceland, Finland, Germany, Switzerland, Portugal and Denmark, with more trips planned. I have no intention of staying at home forever. When travelling alone by air or train I use the "meet and greet" facilities on offer at stations and airports, as I cannot carry a suitcase or hurry! My pills are always in my handbag in case of delays, also a small pair of scissors to open those silly little cartons of milk and the various packaging that all food comes in these days, which are definitely not user friendly for arthritic hands.

With regard to medication, I have been prescribed many different drug combinations since 1970. Some have suited me well and I've been on them for years, others either didn't work or the side effects were too uncomfortable. I have found that what works well for me may not help someone else at all, the drug regime is that of "if at first it doesn't succeed try, try again".

During all of this my husband has been a tower of strength; our two daughters have grown up possibly more capable and confident through having had to help me at home so much during their childhood. Both are married with children of their own. They have been a great support, as have my many friends.

I am lucky in having an understanding G.P. as well as excellent backing from the Rheumatology Department at Wexham Park Hospital. From the Consultant, Physiotherapists and Occupational Therapists alike the information and encouragement is endless. Thanks to them and my many gadgets including stair-lift, and splints I lead a busy and satisfying life.

My only regret is having had to give up my nursing career. Maybe with these new drugs available a fully qualified nurse like me will not have to give up a worthwhile and enjoyable job at such a young age.