Eileen Davidson: “Chronic Eileen” & life with rheumatoid arthritis

Eileen Davidson always knew about arthritis, her grandmother and aunt had it. She never really understood her grandmothers need for double knee replacement surgery or her aunt's true reason for her wheelchair until Eileen was also diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis at 29.

Having to kiss her late 20s goodbye was only the beginning, Eileen ended up losing her ability to work as an esthetician. By the time her pain was taken seriously, she was eligible for long-term disability. Devastated by the tolls arthritis was taking on her life, matters only got worse when she received a diagnosis for Osteoarthritis. Having to come to terms with both her RA and OA diagnosis, Eileen decided to fight this invisible enemy, not just for herself, but for her young son, Jacob, whom she is the single mother of.

After more than a dozen medications, including biologics, and a healthy dieting leading to 60 lbs loss, she has finally found some relief. It also prepared her for her diagnosis of Fibromyalgia. Eileen wants to share the benefits of living a healthy lifestyle to those struggling with chronic pain and fatigue. She is passionate about creating awareness for arthritis. In late 2016, she became an ambassador for The Arthritis Society and created blog www.chroniceileen.com. Within one year she has been published in Reader's Digest Canada, Inked Magazine, written for Healthline and The Mighty. Everyday Health recognized her blog as one of the top ten arthritis blogs, she isn't near finished.

Patient advocacy has given Eileen a new outlook on life and keeps her moving forward. Her goal is to help those struggling with chronic illness to live better, healthier lives. Arthritis Research Canada plays a major role in that.