Hi buppy, i am new to this site also and after reading lots here and recieving a warm reply to a thread that i posted. I am feeling very encouraged and not quite so alone in this journey. I was diagnosed july 13,2010, so yes its is new and scarey and i have to leave my home town to go for weeks of intensive therapy. .I am feeling very optimistic and ready to get started on this detour. It is not the route i would have chosen to take but hey i will make the most of the scenery along my way and endure what it takes to try and work through the stiffness and pain in my hand and arm. I can keep hoping for a remission and support to stay positive through this journey is something i think starts within onesself and then is richly enhanced by the wonderful people in this group from what i have seen here so far. I think we are blessed to have found this place. wishing you happiness and all the best !