I was very excited to find Barbara's book. I did a general internet search for reactive arthritis and was thrilled to find someone who had experienced what I had. I was diagnosed with Reiter's Syndrome (Reactive Arthritis) in 1983 after eating undercooked chicken. What followed was several months of intense pain and difficulty. Many joints in My lower body were swollen so badly that I was bedridden for about 3 Months. I very gradually improved to a wheelchair and then crutches but it was slow and agonizing. InterestIngly for a couple of months a frIend of mIne cooked only macrobIotIc food for me. This consisted mainly of brown rice and vegetables. This diet naturally eliminates all nightshade vegetables. During this period I made tremendous improvement . Unfortunately once the person left I was unable to continue with the diet and my condition worsened. Unlike barbara, I did have an almost total recovery after 18 months that lasted for many many years. A few years ago it came back strong and I've been struggling quite a bit since then.

I have read most of Barbara's book and I'm ready to get moving. I am excited at the prospect of being able to do the things I love again as I am somewhat limited at this time.