I received my diagnosis in February, after a couple months of ongoing symptoms, and am finally on the journey of treating it. It has been a process, to say the least. I feel like there’s a lot to fill you in on and share now that I’m at a point where I feel comfortable opening up about it. Truthfully, the start of this year has been pretty brutal. You never fully appreciate your health until it’s compromised and I have learned that lesson hard. I want to share a bit about what I’ve been going through for a few reasons. While I don’t plan to become a psoriatic arthritis influencer (😜), if sharing my diagnosis and a bit of my experience will help just one other person feel not alone, then I’ve done my job. Going through the symptoms that I’ve been having and reaching the diagnosis has caused a lot of self-reflection and re-prioritization in life to help manage my stress and take care of myself better. I’ve had to make some hard decisions in order to do that, which I’ll get into in a little bit. Finally, I think it’s important for me to be open and honest with you to “pull back the curtain” a little bit. I’m a huge proponent of remembering that social media is just a tiny snippet of someone’s life – you don’t actually know the people that you follow, you only know what they let you know. I haven’t spoken on this for the last 5 months that it’s been going on because I haven’t been ready, but feel comfortable to do so now. I want to share because I think that’s where I have the opportunity to connect on a deeper level with you, which is part of the joy of this job!
While I don’t plan to share the specifics on treatment that we’re pursuing right now, I am happy to say that I am finally treating my PsA. To rewind, I started having symptoms in mid-December, finally got in with a rheumatologist in early February, and waited over eight weeks to have treatment approved. It has been wild. I’ve been very lucky to have been an otherwise healthy person all my life and not have to deal with insurance, medications, testing, and the like before, but it has made all of this pretty overwhelming. I’m happy to be on the other side of all of that and finally have a plan of action for feeling better!
It all started in mid-December, just a day or two after wrapping up my work for Elisabeth Ashlie for the year. I woke up and noticed that my hands felt very sore one morning. I shrugged it off, assuming my hands were just sore from all of the work I’d done making jewelry with pliers for the weeks prior. We traveled to Wisconsin for Christmas and I started to notice some swelling in my feet, plus my hands were still sore. Fast forward to us returning home from our trip with our friends to Florida in early January, I could barely get out of bed. The inflammation in my body was unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. I could barely lift Liam out of his crib, had to take the stairs one at a time, and had difficulty doing nearly anything. It was scary and stressful and very painful. I went through a ton of testing with my primary physician before we got to the point of referring to rheumatology. All of the bloodwork and testing caused a lot of anxiety. I was always worried about what would come back on the tests – is this something really bad? What is happening to my body? Why is this happening? It was difficult to get through the days physically, but so much more difficult mentally because my brain was running a thousand miles a minute with worry. My rheumatologist ran her own slew of tests on me to get the full picture of what was happening in my body before we finally landed on the psoriatic arthritis diagnosis. I’ve had psoriasis on my scalp for years. It’s never been terrible, but has been an irritant. Both psoriasis and arthritis run in my family. Psoriatic Arthritis an auto-immune disease with no cure, so it’s something that I will be dealing with the rest of my life. On the bright side, with the correct treatment and some lifestyle changes, I should be able to live a “normal” life without many complications!
It can be extremely isolating to suffer from something that isn’t visibly obvious. With my symptoms, you couldn’t plainly see that I was suffering. If you saw me try to open a carton of milk or get up off the floor, it would be pretty obvious that something wasn’t right with my body. But I have largely been able to continue on with my life, albeit some days were very, very difficult. Since I wanted to wait until I was at a better place to open up to you all about it, I’m thankful that I was able to get by with my usual content and sharing on social media.
In truth, I have felt betrayed by my body some days. Things I used to be able to do with ease may now be very difficult or even impossible. When it was once no big deal to be able to lift my son out of his crib turned into an event that I had to physically brace myself for and take a deep breath before doing. It’s hard to feel like a stranger in my own body, but I’m hopeful to get back to feeling more like myself with treatment.
Throughout the course of the last few months of dealing with this and coming to terms with what it means for my life, I’ve taken a good, hard look at some things. It feels so cliché to say, but it has truly given me a renewed appreciation for what my body can do, even on the hard days. On the flip side, it has brought to light just how much stress I allowed into my life. Stress can trigger symptoms, so I’ve made a concerted effort over the last several months to reduce my stress where I can. I’ve built in true “no work” times into my week – forcing myself to unplug from that stressor.
Another thing that I’ve decided is to close Elisabeth Ashlie, my online jewelry and goods shop. This is something that I have been considering since Liam was born, but the last few months have been what I needed to finally make the decision. There have been several “signs” along the way that this is the right move, most notably that I felt a significant weight lift off my shoulders once I finally put an end date on it. The shop will officially be closing on June 8th of this year. We’ve still got some sales and fun promotions happening between now and then, so be sure to grab anything you have your eye on, as you won’t be able to after the 8th!
While it has been a tough start to the year, I’m happy to say that I feel like we’re on the upswing! Starting treatment and getting to a good place with my health has been my number one concern and we’ve made a lot of progress on both of those!
I wanted to share all this to let you in on something that has been going on with me, a normal, regular human with real life “stuff”, to remind you that we’re all going through something. Social media doesn’t paint the full picture of someone’s life, though it can be an incredible tool to connect people.
Thank you for being here!
🤍🤍sending prayers and hugs for all the things, all the hard decisions that have been made and all the decisions to come. Prayers for you guys, and just know there are a slew of people who have never met you but think the world of you and will continue to pray for you and with you through all of this.
Thank you so much! That means the world to me.
Sending prayers that you will continue to have great days ahead, especially now having a diagnosis and the start of treatment. Thank you so much for sharing this with us. You are right….we never know what people are going through. Sending good vibes and prayers your way.
Thank you so much – that means a lot!
In today’s world of social media people tend to forget that content creators are human also. Thank you for using your platform to help others. I’m so sorry you’re having to go through this. Thankful you’re feeling better and figuring out what helps you feel better. Best of luck to you❤️
Thank you so much!
So sorry you’re dealing with this. Sending you lots of good vibes for felling better. 💖😉
Thank you so much!
I’m so sorry to hear about all of this! So glad you’re getting the help you need and are on the road to feeling better. Also sorry to hear that you’re closing your shop; you’ve done such a great job with it from the beginning! It’s such a relief though I’m sure to be able to take that work off of your plate. Praying for an easier year ahead for you!
Thank you so much! It was a difficult decision, for sure, but I know it’s the right move for my health moving forward.
Sending prayers your way. You are a bright light on IG and I have so enjoyed following your motherhood journey and frequently shop EA. My God give you strength and peace as you continue to heal. Hugs from Texas!
Thank you so much! I truly appreciate that.
Thanks so much for sharing your story. So sorry to hear it’s been a tough start to the year. I can really relate to all the feelings you shared. Having an autoimmune illness, the classic ‘well you don’t look sick’ is a whole rollercoaster in itself. Hope the treatment helps and you’re able to ride the waves as they come. You’re definitely not alone!
Thank you so much! I hate that I can relate to others going through the same thing, since I wouldn’t wish it on anybody else, but thank you for sharing!
Thanks for sharing❤️ I am sorry you have had to go through all of this, it all sounds very painful and stressful. Thankful you are starting to feel better and have a treatment plan. Praying for continued healing over your body ❤️
Hi Lauren,
Sending many positive vibes your way dealing with your new diagnosis, and thank you for sharing your personal health journey. One question. With Mike’s therapy background, did he have any suspicions of what may have been going on with you? Just curious and good luck you to you!
Thank you so much! Yes, he did. He did a ton of research when it all started happening and was confident that was it from very early on.
Thank you for sharing. I wish you all the best and you and your family will be in my prayers. My husband was diagnosed with psoriasis in 2019 and we haven’t been able to find the right treatment yet.
Best of luck to you. And thank you for being so honest. Your story just might help someone else that is struggling with a health condition.
Thank you! I hope he is able to find a treatment that works!
Hi Lauren,
I never write comments on people’s health. But wanted to let you your not alone in this diagnosis. I suffered from the same thing. It was a challenge of getting a diagnosis. I tried different medications but some had hard side effects. What helped me was a drug called low dose naltrexone. It is made at a Compounding pharmacy and you have start out on a low dose and work your way up. Not a medical doctor but you can google it and read what it does. I know different medication helps certain people, but thought I would put it on your radar. I have no joint swelling in my toes anymore. I will get occasionally aches in my hands. But so much better then when I first started out. All my best to you on this new journey of getting better.
Thank you! Glad to hear you found something that works well for you!
Thank you for sharing your story with us. We never know what people are going through. Elizabeth Ashleigh will certainly be missed, but you have to take care of yourself. Thank you for you! Sending prayers and good vibes your way.
Thank you!
I’m so glad you are finally getting some relief from your symptoms! I too was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease this year, Myasthenia Gravis. I had severe weakness in my hands and arms and couldn’t even unbuckle my kiddos’ car seats. I completely sympathize with what you went through, it’s so hard! Praying your health continues to improve and that closing your business goes smoothly.
So, so hard! I hope you’ve been able to find some relief. Thank you for sharing!
Lauren, thanks for opening up and sharing your life with us! I have no doubt this post will help someone who is struggling alone. Hugs and prayers!
Thank you so much!
I’m sorry you have to deal with this and thank you for sharing your personal info. I’m sad that the shop’s closing down but good for you for doing what you need to. I am confident that you will get through this and continue to be the great influencer you are!
Thank you so much! That means a lot!
Prayers for you to respond well to your treatment plan. Thank you for sharing your story and for the reminder that everyone is going through something, and that we should routinely show respect and kindness to everyone.
Thank you so much!
Thank you for sharing! You are not alone 🙂 There are so many of us out here 😉 There is an amazing memoir on autoimmune diseases and chronic illness called The Invisible Kingdom. Best of luck on your journey to healing <3
Thank you for sharing!!
Wow I am so sorry to hear. I am sad my favorite jewelry shop is closing but know you need to do what’s best for you and your health. I will be keeping you in my thoughts and prayers!
Thank you so much!
Hugs and Prayers! Lots of Hugs and Prayers!
Thank you so much!
Hi! I am so glad you figured out what it was and that your treatment seems to be working! I know how frustrating it is. My daughter, now 21, was diagnosed about 4 years ago, similar to you after an abundance of tests! For her, her symptoms were not typical: while she has the psoriasis on her skin in numerous, visible places, he joint pain was in her hips and back. Over the years she has tried many different regimens and medicines, some that did nothing, others that did for awhile and then stopped. She has now been using Cosentyx, and injectable, but not painful, and has had the most success. It’s the one thing that has really worked with skin part, and no pain. I know there is much more that she could probably manage through her diet, but she’s a college student, so you know that goes. Anyhow, just sharing so you know what others out there are going through and that you are certainly not alone.
Thank you so much! I’m glad to hear that she finally found something that is working for her – that is great!
Oh gosh! Stress is no joke. Sending lots of positive and healing vibes! Much love to you and your family.
Thank you so much!
You should the medical medium’s protocol. It heals all sorts of auto immune diseases and totally gets rid of inflammation. I keep seeing people who had really painful autoimmune diseases being fully cured with drinking daily celery juice and whatever else that’s included in the medical medium’s protocol. I wish you the best and hope you feel better soon.
Thank you!
Lauren,
I’m so sorry to hear this news. I’m glad you finally got a diagnosis and are getting treatments. I’d recommend following the medical medium on Instagram. He’s written a ton of books and many have gotten results from following his protocols. Celery juice is a hidden gem.
Thank you!
Thank you so much for sharing this! I too suffer from an autoimmune disease as well. I know what you are feeling and your words are an absolute perfect description of what goes on when you suffer with a “silent” disease. Hang in there! The days get better and brighter. You are not alone. Prayers you keep feeling better and better! 💕
Thank you so much! I’m so sorry that you understand so well — I hope for many good days ahead for you!
I’m so glad you have a diagnosis and are on a path of treatment. Waiting on medical tests can be so terrifying, even more so when you are a mama with a little one who depends on you. I hope you get back to feeling “yourself” quickly!
Thank you so much!
I’m so sorry you have been dealing with this but so thankful you are feeling better. I’m sure you’ve had all the advice but from personal experience, make sure you get tested for EBV, mold and Lyme with a functional or naturopathic doctor. It’s usually something much deeper that needs to be addressed when dealing with this in order to truly heal. Prayers for complete healing!!!
Thank you!
So sorry you’re going through this. I have Rheumatoid Arthritis. I can definitely relate to how you explained that your definition of feeling good has changed. Prayers that you get to a place where you feel good most of the time.
Thank you so much! I’m sorry that you understand so well.
I’m so sorry to hear that you’re going through this! It’s like you said, you never know what someone is dealing with. I really hope that the treatment works well! Love Lena
Thank you so much!
I’ve followed you from the grey desk days 🙂 and have loved watching you and your family grow. I have a different auto-immune disease and it’s just weird to have our bodies attack themselves. Prayers that your treatment helps to where you feel your best again. Not that you need any advice but after years of feeling less than normal, I did the auto-immune protocol diet (AIP) and found dairy is a huge trigger for me. Just throwing that out there. Hugs and prayers to you.
Thank you so much! I’m sorry you know the struggle so well. Hoping for many good days ahead for you!
So sorry for your pain, glad you’ve found treatment! Take good care of yourself!
Sorry to hear you’ve been working on getting diagnosed and a treatment plan started. I too have psoriatic arthritis. Symptoms started in August/September 2019 with a rheumatologist appointment in July 2020. I’ve been on a few medications but have been on a biologic since August and I feel much better than before. Hang in there! Treat yourself kind on those rough days and don’t over do on the days you feel “normal.” I’m glad you posted about your experience, it does help to hear from others and see others that “don’t look sick”.
Thank you so much! I’m sorry that you understand so well, but so glad that you’re feeling better!
Oh my goodness, I am so happy they were able to figure it out and get you the right treatment. Happy to see you at a good mental state to be able to share something so personal with all of us. That is hard. Thinking and praying for you 💜💜 xoxo
Thank you so much!
I am so sorry that you are dealing with pain. I personally have RA so I understand. It is huge to have a diagnosis and making steps for treatment. I remember how much pain I was in, answers gave me hope. I am glad you are doing what you need for your health. Praying that the relief keeps coming!
Thank you so much! Thank you for sharing.
Blessings to you sweet Lauren! Invisible illness is absolutely so hard in more than just the physical aspect like putting on a bra or washing your hair. The mental toll and the “why is this happening to me” is so hard to understand and deal with. I commend you for sharing what you are going through. I have Rheumatoid Arthritis-diagnosed at 25 and it came out of left field like a bat 🦇 outta hell. I’m 34 now and still struggle with it. Finding the right concoction of meds is the hardest. What you said is so relatable- your definition of how good you feel changes when you go through something like this and life will never be the same. I am so sorry to see Elizabeth Ashlie go, but I’m so stinking glad you are doing what is best for your health! I am rambling but I want to THANK YOU for being transparent. I don’t know a single person in my age range that can relate to the nightmares of autoimmune let alone someone on a public platform like you. It means a ton to me personally that you are willing to share this. Please know you have an army of people behind you care for you!
Ashly, your comment means the world to me. I’m so sorry that you know the struggle so well. I’m honored that I can be a person to help you feel just a little less alone – that’s why I wanted to share. It’s extremely isolating, but I’ve already connected with so many of you who know what I’ve been walking through the last few months. Thank you for sharing with me! Hoping for many good days ahead for you!
Chronic pain can be such a heavy burden, i can. I’m so glad you are on your way to a treatment that works for you! I’m hoping this year is the year for answers to my chronic pain as well. Will keep you in my prayers!
Thank you so much! I’m so sorry you have to deal with it, too. I hope you find the answers you’re looking for!
Sending prayers and hugs!
Thank you!
Lauren, I’m so sorry to hear about your health scare! So glad you were able to figure out what was going on and get a treatment plan to help you deal with your scary symptoms! You are a brave woman and I am thankful you were able to share your story. Long time follower here, prayers for you and your family.
Thank you so much!
I understand your grief and thoughts. I was recently diagnosed with lupus (during this pandemic) and share many of the same feelings. I’m on my second form of treatment… first didn’t work well, so now I give myself chemo shots every week. It’s tough and isolating. I’m sorry this is your reality.
I’m so sorry to hear that. I hope this treatment works for you. Thinking of you!
Thank you for being vulnerable and sharing your experience. Hugs to you and your family as you continue to navigate this life change. 💛
Thank you so much!
Oh Lauren. I’m so sorry to hear this. I prayed for you right after I saw your IG stories. I know you have a very loving and caring family, and that I’m sure can make a huge difference. These bodies are fit to last forever, and isn’t just like life to remind us of that. Keep in the Word, he is our secret dwelling place that can fill us up spiritually, and it can have physical affects. Big hugs ❤️
Thank you so much!
I really appreciate you sharing your story. I have one friend with rheumatoid arth and one with psoriatic arth. I can understand your pain as I see them deal with theirs. I would love to pray for treatments to work and remission to last a very long time♥️
Thank you so much – that means a lot to me!
I was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease at the age of 30. Reading through your post I remember the anxiety and challenges that come along with it. One thing I learned is everyone’s experience is unique to them and you’ll find the things that work for you. As crazy as it sounds there are blessings that come with it too. I learned to be a more empathetic person. I learned to enjoy the things that really matter. Thank you for sharing your story. I think you’ll be able to help a lot of people. Wishing you the best.
Thank you so much!
I’m so sorry to hear you’ve had to go through this and you’re so young! About four years ago I was diagnosed with Reactive Arthritis, extremely rare. I couldn’t move my right arm or walk or even sign my own name as I couldn’t grip a pen. Treatment has been positive for me, too, and I’m left with inflammation in my feet. I wear special inserts in my shoes and can walk. I can use my arm now. I used to be a runner – running 2 miles per day so this is maddening at times and we do feel cheated but appreciative, at the same time, as you pointed out, for what we can do now. I would love to chat with you further any time you have time. Take care! ❤️
So sorry to hear about your experience. Thank you for sharing with them! I hope treatment continues to work well for you!
Thank you for sharing your story. I also have psoriatic arthritis and so does my 13 yr old son. It is definitely a journey to figure out how to deal with it. Good luck to you and I hope your treatments make your pain better for you.
So sorry to hear that. Thank you for sharing with me!
I’m so glad to hear they have found treatment to help you. Did you ever develop trigger finger from this? Continued prayers for you.
Thank you! No, I didn’t.
I knew something was off…So happy for you to make these hard decisions and making a point to look at the positive! I will keep you in my prayers! 💗 And thank you for being YOU!!
Thanks so much!
I’m so sorry about your pain. There’s a really interesting book called “invisible kingdom” that talks about how women feel alone navigating auto-immune diseases. Maybe it would interest you.
Thank you!
Thank you for sharing such a personal part of your life. You are truly and inspiration and I am such your story and your journey will touch and reach those in similar situations and encourage those suffering and just down with similar diagnosis.
I will certainly be praying for you on this new journey. Your positivity and radiant smile will take you far in this journey.
Thank you so much – I truly appreciate that!
My 18 year old son has psoriasis with suspected psoriatic arthritis. We are in the process of trying to get a biologic treatment approved right now. Hugs and best wishes to you. Glad you have a lot of support.
I’m sorry to hear that. I hope he gets a treatment soon that he responds well to. Thank you!
Thank you for sharing Lauren. Hope your feel better. ❤️
I am so sorry to hear this! I was diagnosed about a year and a half ago. Hope your treatment continues to be helpful! 💜
Thank you so much! Sorry to hear that you’re also living with it. I hope you’ve found something that works for you!
My daughter was diagnosed with juvenile idiopathic arthritis at age 3. She is now 10 and we’ve had lots of ups and downs. I know the fear of the unknown-diagnosis well. Thank you for opening up and sharing your experience. A diagnosis and a plan always makes things feel manageable. Good luck!
I’m sorry to hear that you understand so well, but I hope that you’ve been able to find something(s) that help her. Thank you for sharing and for your kind words!
My Dad and my Sister have RA. It’s been so hard watching them during this process. I’m sending lots of love and prayers your way. You got this 💪
Love,
Faith
I’m sorry to hear that. Thank you for your kind message ❤️ ❤️
I’m sorry you’re having to deal with this. I’m especially sorry it’s painful. That’s never fun! I understand how isolating “hidden” auto-immune diseases can be. I have Hashimoto’s and deal with all sorts of thyroid stuff as well as psoriasis. I’ll be praying your treatment goes well and manages your pain especially. Having dealt with my stuff for over a decade, I now know that auto-immune issues aren’t typically a one and done. Tryyy not to get frustrated if you have to adjust treatments over time. It’s part of the game. Be confident in your doctors and yourself to work together to find what’s best for you.
I’m so glad to hear you were able to get a proper diagnosis and put a treatment plan in motion. I’m also grateful that you’ve chosen to share your story as a means to help others and raise awareness. So much of everything you said resonated with me as I was diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder, Sjogrens, a while back and experienced many of the same things. Our bodies are amazing machines and when everything is working properly, we tend to forget just how incredible they are. We’re beyond blessed to live in a time where we have a nice range of treatment options available to those of us with AI disorders so that we can continue to enjoy life to its fullest . Wishing you tremendous success on your treatment journey!
Thank you so much for your comment – I truly appreciate it. Sorry to hear that you understand so well. I hope you’re feeling well!
I really appreciate your honesty in sharing your health challenge. It’s so easy to look at an influencer’s life and think that they just have it all going for them and like they have a charmed life, you know, the highlight reel and all. But you are so right – we are all human and have challenges. Glad you’re feeling on the road to better!
Thank you! I appreciate that.
Blessings to you. Lauren. Diagnosed in April 2011 with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), I know how difficult the pain coupled with the fatigue of an autoimmune disease can alter one’s life. Everyone’s disease is as unique as their finger prints; there is no one-size-fits-all approach to treating the disease. I found relief through dietary changes and medications. I am happy to report that a few weeks I was declared in clinical remission. I no longer have to take methotrexate, a chemo drug, which means no more constant labs!! Only on Enbrel, which has been a blessing. Please know that this does not have to define your life. Sending you love and healing.
Thank you so much! Glad to hear that you’re in such a better place with it!
Hi Lauren, I am sorry to hear about your diagnosis. Your realistic but positive attitude will help others. Your mentioning of “you don’t look sick” is very valuable because many illnesses are those one can’t readily see and its psychologically so difficult for the patient on top of everything else going on. I’m sure it’s a relief to get a diagnosis after dealing with scary symptoms for months even though the diagnosis isn’t what you wanted. But the medicines these days are really good! And I wish you the best. Trish
Thank you so much! Truly appreciate your comment.
One other thing I forgot to add. Have followed many influencers but have abandoned most but you. You are real. And that plus other things make you a joy to follow so thank you for it all!
Thank you!! That means a lot!
Hi there Lauren 🙂 I was wondering what medication are you taking for this? I was just diagnosed but terrified of the Rx… Enbrel?? Thank you, Laura
Wishing you all the best!
Hi! I’m sorry to hear of your diagnosis. I’m not comfortable sharing what treatment route we’ve taken, as I want to see how my body responds and what works for me, etc. I would definitely talk to your doctor about your concerns! Sending well wishes!