The FamilyRoom

This section of Tender Joints is dedicated to the friends and family of those dealing with RA.  Rheumatoid Arthritis affects not only the individual diagnosed with the disease, but also family and friends.  A diagnosis of RA can be scary and confusing for everyone.  Our FamilyRoom is a source of information for anyone that knows and loves someone with RA.  Our Support Group also has a section for family and caregivers and offers support from others.

Arthritis and the Cycle of Grief - This is a great article dealing with the stages one may go through after a diagnosis with RA

The Emotional Impact of Arthritis - Another great article talking about the emotional impact

The Spoons Theory - This is a wonderful personal story by Christine Miserandino of But You Don't Look Sick, of what it is like to live with sickness or disability.

A Letter From Your Chronic Condition - This is a letter written "from" your chronic condition and a "reply" back and is shown on one of my favorite sites....But You Don't Look Sick.  This is something that is also good to share with family members, to give them an idea of what we go through.