Surrey

Member Since January 2006

My Story
At the age of 27 I was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis. The arthritis started in my shoulders and spread to my hands, knees and feet leaving me crippled. I was unable to do simple tasks, such as unclench my fist, lift a jug of milk or even wash my own hair. I had gone through over 6 surgeries on everything including my thumbs, hands, ankles and feet, leaving me with plastic knuckles and numerous fused bones. At this time, I was taking several pills each day and receiving cortisone injections. On a regular day I endured stiffness, pain and the loss of agility. Many a times, I woke up unable to move or even get up from my own bed. My husband would have to cradle me and lift me out of bed. The arthritis had taken over my body to the point that I was wheel chair ridden.
The medicine helped reduce the pain temporarily, however I suffered through the side effects. After 27 years of suffering with Arthritis, I was sleep deprived, unable to move and emotionally drained. At this point, I had lost all hope.
Even after trying everything from water aerobics, swimming & physiotherapy at the Arthritis center, the arthritis was still relentless. Although these treatments were very helpful, and helped to alleviate some of the pain, I was struggling to gain control of my illness.
Luckily, a friend of mine gave me a trial offer to Curves. I was hesitant at first, wondering how a crippled woman, who was unable to even walk straight, would manage to lifts weights. During my first week at Curves, I was limping and unable to even use the machines. However I was going to make the most out of the pass I was given so I continued to go 3-4 times a week. After a few weeks, I was gaining confidence and meeting many others who encouraged me to do my best.
After 2 months of going to the gym approximately 3-4 times a week, I had regained the strength in my knees & shoulders and I was starting to lose approximately 2 pounds a month. I had also regained my confidence and I was smiling more. My stiffness had reduced greatly and I was becoming more flexible in my movement. The trainers at Curves were understanding of my condition and inspired, motivated and guided me through my routine at Curves. Without thier guidance & encouragement, I would not be as strong & healthy as I am today.
After 3 years at Curves, the limp in my step is completely gone and I am able to complete a full circuit at Curves, go for walks and live my life without the assisstance of a wheel chair or a nurse! In addition, I have reduced my medicine intake to one pill a day and I am no longer required to take the heavy drugs that I could not live without at one point in my life. I have lost over 25 pounds, gained muscle mass and strengthened my bones.
Becoming a Curves member has been one of the best decisions I have made and I encourage anyone who is suffering through an ailment to take control of thir lives and make a decision to get better. I did!

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