What’s it like to be a Lawyer with Rheumatoid Arthritis? Amy’s Story

<p>Amy shares what she’s learned while managing a fast paced, mentally taxing career as a lawyer while living with rheumatoid arthritis. Amy & Cheryl share their experiences in peer support groups, and explore how they've both learned how to challenge their internalized ableism and overcome shame through connecting with others in Cheryl'<a href="https://arthritis.theenthusiasticlife.com/rheum-to-thrive/" target="_blank">s Rheum to THRIVE </a>support group. </p><h2>Episode at a glance</h2><ul><li>Amy’s diagnosis journey during the Covid19 pandemic- after severe fatigue, brain fog and pain, Amy gets preliminary diagnosed with RA by her primary care doctor but faces a long waiting time to see a Rheumatologist. She also experiences other challenges getting healthcare due to the Covid19 pandemic.</li><li>Reflections on balancing a demanding career as a lawyer with RA, including a discussion about how and whether to disclose your disability in the workplace</li><li>The importance of support: Amy discovers she doesn’t have to go through this alone after connecting with others on social media and joining Cheryl’s <a href="https://arthritis.theenthusiasticlife.com/rheum-to-thrive/" target="_blank">Rheum to THRIVE support group</a></li><li>Shame, mobility aids and challenging internalized ableism: Amy shares how she’s gone from hiding her disability to having a pretty cane she can show off, but continues to face some challenges using mobility aids such as wheelchairs.</li></ul><h2>Medical disclaimer:</h2><p>All content found on <a href="https://arthritis.theenthusiasticlife.com/" target="_blank">Arthritis Life</a> public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.</p><h2>Episode Sponsors</h2><p><a href="https://arthritis.theenthusiasticlife.com/rheum-to-thrive/" target="_blank">Rheum to THRIVE</a>, a community support & education program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from