When did you first get diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis?
I was first diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in December 2011. I was going to school for fashion design at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising (FIDM) in Los Angeles when I had a sharp pain in my back which led me to seek medical assistance. That physician then referred me to see a rheumatologist for testing to see if I had rheumatoid arthritis, which the tests showed I did. I then went for more testing and a second, plus a third opinion from other rheumatologists to make sure I was diagnosed correctly.
What has your experience been like dealing with the condition?
At first, when I was diagnosed with RA, I was scared about the unknown of this disease; however, since becoming more active within the arthritis community, I’ve found that keeping my daily routine really helps with my arthritis. Staying healthy, eating the right foods, staying hydrated, and ensuring I keep my body and mind active is very important in reducing flare-ups of this disease.
As a brand builder and leading fashion designer who pursues an active life, how has your lifestyle changed after being diagnosed?
When I started taking medication for my arthritis in 2011, my life changed dramatically by slowing me down and sometimes being unable to get out of bed. I needed to find the correct medicine and combination of medications that worked with my body and fast-paced lifestyle. It took many years for me to find this right combination; however, once I did, I could live the active lifestyle required for my profession. I still listen to my body every day and make adjustments when needed.
Lives of patients with RA can be improved by being a part of the arthritis community and really getting invovled in patient care — even if it’s your own. A safe place to which others can relate is important and can be very beneficial physically and mentally.
What motivates you to advocate for arthritis patients?
After being diagnosed with RA, I tried to find more information about the condition, and also for other younger patients like me whom I could relate to. Unfortunately, social media was not as present back then as it is now, so it was very difficult to find other arthritis patients like myself. After establishing myself in my career, I decided I could take the next step in telling my personal arthritis story to the public, which could be inspiring to other newly diagnosed patients or other younger patients that can relate.
Ever since my story came out, I really found a place in the arthritis community for my voice to be heard and also for it to help others. Since this disease cannot be seen all the time, patient voices, advocacy, and stories are extremely important. The motivation of other arthritis patients keeps me going each day.
In your opinion, are there any misconceptions amongst men in society dealing with arthritis?
I feel men in society have to hide their arthritis. The stigma that could come along with this disease and the pain they feel with arthritis makes many men not want to show others in society their true feelings. Society still has an expectation for men to stay strong and stoic. I think men can be more vulnerable and should speak out about their arthritis. Being vocal about your arthritis helps society move forward.
How can the lives of patients dealing with RA be improved?
Lives of patients with RA can be improved by being a part of the arthritis community and really getting involved in patient care — even if it’s your own. A safe place to which others can relate is important and can be very beneficial physically and mentally.
Also, with new arthritis medications becoming available, arthritis patients with their rheumatologists should seek the best medication to cope with their arthritis.
