RA and new Job

[Mockingbird]

I am suppose to be starting a new job, first I had to worry about the drug test because of the meds, I guess that went okay, now I am worried about what I will have to do on the job and if I will be able to handle it. Since it is thru a service I have alot of hurry up and wait. I find new starts stressful and have to work on relaxing, all this and I have not even started yet.
what do I say to new co-workers I know legally I do not have to say anything but I am sure they will notice. any advice?

[leighdu]

That's a tough situation. When you have those bad flare days, the last place you will want to be is working. I am this way and I work at home. On those days I don't even want to lift a finger. I think the best thing to do is give it your all but at the same time do not overexert yourself. You don't want to go into a new job having people think that you are trying to get light work because of your RA, but at the same time you can't overdo it.

[naturelover]

Very tough call and RA's are the worst affected people in the work place. I feel bit sorry for you because I am here only because of my wife who is diagnosed with mild RA and having pains at her foot. But, safely she is a house-wife.

[leighdu]

Very tough call and RA's are the worst affected people in the work place. I feel bit sorry for you because I am here only because of my wife who is diagnosed with mild RA and having pains at her foot. But, safely she is a house-wife.

Sometimes housewives can have it worse with all the cleaning going on. Fortunately though housewives usually don't get fired for taking the day off :D.

[kageyd]

In my experience (I am 69, and retired now from a variety of jobs) coworkers are people who themselves have problems, and are thus usually pretty understanding of the problems of others - as long as your problems don't put undue burdens on them in the workplace. The question will be, can you meet the demands of the job itself; if not, and if you run out of sick days (which may happen pretty quickly if you're doing contract work, as I think that's what you meant), then the company will have no choice but to keep you on at no pay for sick days or to let you go. I wouldn't broadcast your RA quickly, but I wouldn't try to hide it from co-workers either, because sooner or later it will need to be addressed. My heart goes out to you, you are in a tough situation, and I hope for you that all goes well for as long as possible. Kageyd

[crimson]

That is really a tough situation but I guess you are not the only one who has RA in your work, eventually they will know it and I wish they can understand it and I pray for you and your new work.