I woke up with RA while on vacation in Hilton Head in 2000. It hit me rapidly and aggressively. I began with all the traditional medications and failed to find relief with them. In the summer of 2002, I reluctantly went on Remicade. At the time it seemed like a miracle drug. I soon found myself taking higher doses and finding that I the infusions did not control my symptoms for the recommended eight week intervals. I also began to experience the scarring of my veins from all the IV\’s and bloodwork. Emotionally, I was preparing myself for permanent disability. This was especially devasting, because my mother has been disabled since I was a child with serious mental illness. I have learned to fear helplessness. I have cared for her and my family for as long as I can remember. I did not wish to put my husband or children through the ordeal I have been through with my mom. One day as I was sitting in church, a small voice told me that I would be healed. Understanding that healing is not immediate, it is in God\’s time, I waited and remained hopeful. Four months passed, and my healing began. Just by chance, I was put on an antibiotic for 10 days in March, 2003. My arthritis was improved by 50% in just two weeks. I began to educate myself on antibiotics and RA. I found this web site and absorbed as much information as I could. Then I went to my Rhuematologist and insisted on the antibiotic protocal. He reluctantly wrote a script for Minocin as he muttered something about it being a waste of time. Well I have been on Minocin for about eight weeks. My sed rate is only six. I took my last infusion of Remicade in April. I am off Celebrex, and Ultram. I have found another doctor who is willing to accept AP as a viable option for RA. Each day I get stronger. My bike came out of the shed after three years. I have planted lots of flowers. I am starting to get my musculature back. Yesterday, I began my job search for a teaching position in special education. I have my essence back. I can do what I find so vital to my life–being needed and working hard. I am hopeful that I can be an example to others who find themselves in this difficult situation. I want to spread the word that antibiotics are a vital part of treatment for RA.
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Road Back Foundation does NOT offer medical advice. You should consult with your physician regarding any protocol that you are considering. The Foundation does not endorse any specific products, treatments or protocols. Material on this website is for educational purposes only.