The First Year: Rheumatoid Arthritis: An Essential Guide for the Newly Diagnosed (First Year, The) (Paperback)

~ (Author), Kenneth Sack MD (Foreword) "When I was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, I read that my body was "attacking itself," that I was "under siege" by my own system..." (more)
Key Phrases: new biologic drugs, synovial sac, sed rate, Arthritis Foundation, University of California, San Francisco (more...)

Editorial Reviews

Product Description

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a disease characterized by inflammation of the joints, is one of the most disabling forms of arthritis and affects over two million people in the United States. Without proper treatment it can lead to long-term joint damage, chronic pain, loss of function, and disability. From the first moment of her diagnosis, author M.E.A. McNeil took charge and educated herself on every aspect of her condition. Now, as a "patient-expert," she guides those newly diagnosed step-by-step through their first year with RA. McNeil provides crucial information about the nature of the disease, treatment options, diet, exercise, social concerns, emotional issues, networking with others, and much more. The First Year—Rheumatoid Arthritis is an essential resource for everyone who wants to be an informed, active participant in the management of their condition.

About the Author

M.E.A. McNeil has written for the New York Times Magazine and San Francisco Chronicle Magazine and is the author of The Magic Storysinger: A Tale from the Finnish Epic Kalevala, which won the Aesop Accolade from the American Folklore Society. She lives in San Anselmo, California.

Product Details

• Paperback: 320 pages
• Publisher: Da Capo Press (December 20, 2005)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1569243646
• ISBN-13: 978-1569243640
• Product Dimensions: 9 x 5.9 x 1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 12.6 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (3 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #93,201 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

10 of 11 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Rheumatoid Arthritis, July 27, 2007

By	Charlene A. Dunkerly "Charlene Dunkerly" (Kingwood, Texas USA) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

I am a newly diagnosed patient of Rheumatoid Arthritis and this book is easy to read and understand. Although this is a chronic disease, this book has given me hope. I am 53 and was diagnosed early enough that my symptoms may be able to control. Wonderful,inspiring, and educational book. Thank You M.E.A. McNeil!!

7 of 7 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Thorough, Informative & empowering, January 17, 2008

By	M. Forman "mlforman" (Seattle, WA USA) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

I was diagnosed in Apr07 and didn't find this book until Jan08. I wish I had it earlier! It has all the necessary information and recommendations all in one place. She addresses key priorities, medications, holistic approaches, nutrition, organization, information resources, self-motivation, exercise and remind you that you can still have a life with RA. This book has it all and provides a good basis for someone to be able to plan and take control of their own future care. I especially like that she provides empowerment to the individual and remind them to use the support of their "team". This book reminds me to see beyond other people's misconceptions and be able to plan for a very mobile future!

9 of 10 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Stephanie Rogers, June 7, 2007

By	Stephanie A. Rogers (South Salem, NY) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

This is the best book I've read so far about Rheumatoid Arthritis. It is current- the stories are encouraging. I found the information and advice is truly helpful. There are too many horror stories out there!