I was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis at age three and was in a wheelchair until I was about 16. I had my first operation when I was four and by the time I was eight, I had undergone 15 surgeries. Doctors said I’d never walk or be able to have kids.

I got out of a wheelchair, made it from cashier to store manager, and have a wife and two beautiful boys. I’m 40 now and have had 36 surgeries. My hips and knees have been replaced, and my elbow and shoulder were replaced as well. I had to go on disability because I’m getting worse. I had to give up my career four months before my 20-year anniversary. I loved my job, but couldn’t walk around as well anymore.

I have a nine-year-old and a one-year-old. My wife has been by my side for 17 years. I’m blessed to have come as far as I have, but now I feel defeated. Some days I can barely move. It’s crazy to think I was in charge of a store and managed 30 employees to struggling so badly that it’s hard for my wife and kids to see. It’s not fair to them!

Doctors don’t know what else to do with me that we haven’t already. I’ve tried hundred different medications, IV infusions, and self-injections. I don’t respond to pain meds. I’m forced to suffer. I’m really struggling to care for myself and the baby too. I am a fighter, though, I never give up. Anyone that meets me says I’m nice and positive, but underneath I hide the pain so well. But now it’s too much.