Hi JerzeeOT- I have had RA for 5 1/2 years and I remember that feeling of helplessness and doom when I first got my diagnosis. It does get better, especially with the help of your family and friends. Researching and reading up on RA will help you, your husband and others to have more understanding about the disease and what you are going through. Finding a rheumatologist who will listen to you and work with you to find the best medication options is vital. I take Arava, Plaquenil, prednisone(2.5 mg) daily and have been on the biologic Humira for a year. My labs and X-rays are all good and I have had no serious side effects from any of my meds. I still get fatigued, but nothing a good nap won't cure! Everything hurts more in the morning, but I go slowly and after I warm up with my green tea I'm good to go. I agree with those who have said to watch your diet. I found that cutting down on dairy, red meat, salt, caffeine and processed foods helped with the inflamation. I also take 4000mg of high quality fish oil every day to help with inflamation. Swimming is a wonderful exercise that is easy on the joints, especially if you have access to a warm water pool. Take heart and have courage - there is lots of life to be lived, even with RA! My prayers are with you.View Thread