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...

Sclerodermaa chronic autoimmune condition that causes hardening, thickening, or tightening of the skin and attacks the heart, lungs, kidneys, and gastrointestinal tractis extraordinarily difficult to diagnose and can take a huge toll on the psychological well-being of the individual. From the first moment of her diagnosis, author Karen Gottesman 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 scleroderma. She provides crucial information about the nature of the disease,...

Though an estimated eight in ten women in America will be diagnosed with fibroids during their lifetime, it remains one of the most ambiguous conditions a woman can have. In the tradition of the other titles in the First Year series, The First YearFibroids uses a unique approach, guiding readers through practical and straightforward steps for the first seven days following diagnosis, then the next three weeks of their first month, and finally the next eleven months of their first year. Throughout, author Johanna Skilling provides answers and advice that will help women newly diagnosed with...