“Can I live a normal life with rheumatoid arthritis?” is one of the most common questions I hear after diagnosis, and it's also the title of one of the very first episodes I recorded back in 2021. Five years later, after living with rheumatoid arthritis for more than two decades, facilitating Rheum to THRIVE support groups, interviewing over 200 experts and patients, and deepening my understanding of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), my answer has evolved.
In this updated introduction, I share how my response to this question has changed, the importance of exploring internalized ableism, and why I think a better question is: Can I build a joyful, meaningful life with rheumatoid arthritis along for the ride?
After these reflections, you'll hear the original 2021 episode and see what has changed, and what has stayed the same in my thinking over the years. This is very much informed by the rich discussions I’ve had with people in the Rheum to THRIVE communities and the Arthritis Life community at large, whether on social media, email or in person. I would love to hear your thoughts on this question after listening to the episode!
2026 updated thoughts:
2021 original audio:
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Rheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. See all the details and join the program or waitlist now!