| This qualitative study describes the experiences of women who are thriving in the midst of the adversities of rheumatoid arthritis (RA)---a systemic, unpredictable, intractable, and progressively degenerative disease that creates a wide range of limitations and challenges with far-reaching physical and psychological consequences.;Drawing upon the researcher's life with RA and the work of heuristic, cooperative, feminist, and organic researchers, a derivative form of qualitative research, termed insider research, was developed. Participants were selected through self-identification as thriving with chronic illness; they answered yes to the question, Is your life better now than before you become ill? Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 9 participants, including the researcher. The participants were in their 30s and 40s and have lived with RA from 9 to 22 years. All have significant damage and limitations created by RA; 3 are on medical disability; 3 have more than one rheumatic disease; and 1 has survived cancer.;Vignettes sketch each woman's life and medical history. Meta-themes organize the meaning of and journey to a better life: (a) returning to ourselves: the journey of self-discovery in which we examined old beliefs and behaviors, unearthed abandoned aspects of the self, explored novel expressions of ourselves, and created new meaning and fulfillment; (b) taking control of what we can: the endeavor to educate ourselves and to make choices in our own best interest; (c) making connections and building support: the pursuit of personal, professional, and spiritual connections to counterbalance the isolation created by RA; (d) gaining perspective on the journey: the struggle to come to an acceptance of our lives with chronic illness yet still cultivate hope and optimism through our perseverance, humor, gratitude, and aspirations for even better lives; and (e) sharing what we have learned: the advice we offer to others with chronic illness.;This study provides a rich and detailed portrait of the potential for empowerment and transformation in the midst of adversity. It bridges research in psychology, sociology, and medicine, and contributes to the field of positive psychology by describing those who have found hope, strength, and optimism despite the adversities of chronic illness. |
