Let's see.. I was diagnosed some 2-3 years ago with RA and Fibroymyalia. Having been on HRT for some 24 years, within two months of coming off the HRT I was diagnosed with these conditions. I think I may well have been suffering with these conditions for some years but the HRT suppressed them. I have had a period within the 24 years when I had problems with my knees, and also had tennis elbow and carbal tunnel operations, which I believe was probably either the RA or Fibromyaligia. How do you decide which is which?

Each day is different, some days I have boundless energy and find I can do so much, washing, ironing and housework. But if I find I am doing a lot, the next I pay for it. At least once a week I am wiped out, no energy cannot even been seen to wash or comb my hair and sleep I could sleep for England! One thing I have tried to do is to not beat myself up over it, I should have done this or I should have done that. It's hard to remain positive but that is what I try to be. They say laughter helps well I believe it! I try to have my granddaughter for the day every two weeks, and I work full time. Weekends are always very special, but I try not to commit myself to anything, explaining that I must wait and see what the day brings. Most mornings I find it hard to walk when first getting out of bed, it's like walking on a very pebbly beach. On days that I work I always leave plenty of time for me to able to shower and prepare for work. Being on my feet for a whole day I always take another pair of comfortable shoes to work with me.

My medication consist of Tramacet, Meloxicam and Amytryptyline, I also take cod liver oil tables and Glosamine sulphate. I have been told that I should be taking fish oil instead of the cod liver oil, which I will start shortly. What do they say laughter helps, so nothing changes my sense of humour! Having just come home from a week camping, next time I will remember to take a larger tent and entering and exiting the small tent which caused terrible pain in my knees!

As for the challenges, well it certainly throws them at you, but I think its very important to be positive. Although it is hard to remain so when relatives and friends think its all in your mind!

I lost my father at the beginning of this year, and although I thought I was well prepared for it and he had been ill for sometime, it still came as quite a shock to me. I find it very hard trying to look after my mother, or should I say keeping an eye on her. I live only a short walk away, but it still difficult coping with my 79 year old mother and my illness.

I allow myself one day at weekends to totally relax and take walks, and rest as much as possible. I am a great believer in homeopathic medicines, and I am now searching for a remedy, I know lavender is pretty brilliant and would love to hear from anyone using homeopathic medications in partnership with prescribed medications by their specialist.