Cynthia Nagel was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis 65 years ago, at age 27. "After learning of my diagnosis, I went home and cried for four hours and thought my life was over," she says.
At that time, there were very few treatments available for individuals with arthritis, as compared to the many different biologic medications that exist today. Cynthia was a competitive swimmer in college, and she has always enjoyed exercising, especially riding her bicycle. She was determined to continue to live life to the fullest despite the challenges she faced.
Cynthia has had 14 joint surgeries and still has issues with her hands, but that does not stop her from swimming three days a week and riding her Peloton bike. After her late husband retired from the architecture firm he started, they took all their vacations by bicycle. She has toured all 50 states and 25 countries. In her opinion, one way to manage her arthritis is with exercise.
Shortly after her diagnosis, she got involved at the Craft Shop at the local office located in Denver, Colorado. She was asked to become a member of the Craft Shop board and then was asked to serve on the local board. She would go on to chair the local board. Early on, she took a self-help class from the Arthritis Foundation and enjoyed it so much that she became a trainer, traveling to different locations teaching this class. Volunteering has always been a large part of life, and she has helped many nonprofits over the years.
Cynthia is grateful for all the Arthritis Foundation has done for her over the years and all the wonderful things it does for individuals with all forms of arthritis. Many people think arthritis just affects older adults, but individuals of all ages can be diagnosed with this disease. She also wants everyone to know that just because you look healthy, it does not mean you are not dealing at times with the chronic pain that arthritis often brings.
When asked why she supports the Arthritis Foundation, Cynthia says, "When you find an organization that is doing good work and helping so many people, it simply feels good to be part of it."
In addition to supporting the Arthritis Foundation through annual donations, Cynthia has also decided to leave the Arthritis Foundation in her trust. This gift will help ensure her good work continues into the future.
Like Cynthia, you can make a future gift to the Arthritis Foundation to help more individuals live a better life. Contact the Arthritis Foundation at [email protected] or 866-528-8687 to discuss your charitable giving options.
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