﻿{"id":33267,"date":"2024-12-02T13:41:24","date_gmt":"2024-12-02T18:41:24","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sparthritis.ca\/?p=33267"},"modified":"2024-12-02T16:37:33","modified_gmt":"2024-12-02T21:37:33","slug":"marcher-du-mexique-au-canada-avec-de-larthrite","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/sparthritis.ca\/fr\/marcher-du-mexique-au-canada-avec-de-larthrite\/","title":{"rendered":"Marcher du Mexique au Canada avec de l&rsquo;arthrite"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>[et_pb_section fb_built=\u00a0\u00bb1&Prime; _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.27.4&Prime; _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb da_disable_devices=\u00a0\u00bboff|off|off\u00a0\u00bb locked=\u00a0\u00bboff\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb theme_builder_area=\u00a0\u00bbpost_content\u00a0\u00bb da_is_popup=\u00a0\u00bboff\u00a0\u00bb da_exit_intent=\u00a0\u00bboff\u00a0\u00bb da_has_close=\u00a0\u00bbon\u00a0\u00bb da_alt_close=\u00a0\u00bboff\u00a0\u00bb da_dark_close=\u00a0\u00bboff\u00a0\u00bb da_not_modal=\u00a0\u00bbon\u00a0\u00bb da_is_singular=\u00a0\u00bboff\u00a0\u00bb da_with_loader=\u00a0\u00bboff\u00a0\u00bb da_has_shadow=\u00a0\u00bbon\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_row column_structure=\u00a0\u00bb2_3,1_3&Prime; _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.27.4&Prime; _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb hover_enabled=\u00a0\u00bb0&Prime; global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb theme_builder_area=\u00a0\u00bbpost_content\u00a0\u00bb custom_margin=\u00a0\u00bb-75px||||false|false\u00a0\u00bb sticky_enabled=\u00a0\u00bb0&Prime;][et_pb_column type=\u00a0\u00bb2_3&Prime; _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.27.4&Prime; _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb theme_builder_area=\u00a0\u00bbpost_content\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.27.4&Prime; _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb hover_enabled=\u00a0\u00bb0&Prime; global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{%22gcid-578f01a3-804c-40fe-94f8-3dea5c20a6a4%22:%91%22text_text_color%22%93}\u00a0\u00bb theme_builder_area=\u00a0\u00bbpost_content\u00a0\u00bb text_text_color=\u00a0\u00bbgcid-578f01a3-804c-40fe-94f8-3dea5c20a6a4&Prime; sticky_enabled=\u00a0\u00bb0&Prime;]<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">On dit qu&rsquo;un voyage de 1000 miles commence par un seul pas. Si vous souffrez d&rsquo;arthrite ou de toute autre forme de douleur chronique, vous savez que cette citation est particuli\u00e8rement d\u00e9courageante. Au lyc\u00e9e, j&rsquo;ai lu Wild de Cheryl Strayed. L&rsquo;histoire d&rsquo;une femme troubl\u00e9e, r\u00e9cemment divorc\u00e9e, qui a d\u00e9cid\u00e9 de parcourir seule le Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), un sentier qui part de la fronti\u00e8re entre la Californie et le Mexique, traverse la Californie, l&rsquo;Oregon, l&rsquo;\u00c9tat de Washington et arrive \u00e0 Manning Park, en Colombie-Britannique. Son voyage m&rsquo;a inspir\u00e9 et, lorsque j&rsquo;ai termin\u00e9 mes \u00e9tudes universitaires, l&rsquo;id\u00e9e avait pris racine et \u00e9tait devenue quelque chose que je savais devoir faire.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_code _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.27.4&Prime; _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb theme_builder_area=\u00a0\u00bbpost_content\u00a0\u00bb]<script type=\"module\" crossorigin src=\"https:\/\/sparthritis.crowdchange.ca\/js\/91291\/embed.js?lang=fr\"><\/script>[\/et_pb_code][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\u00a0\u00bb1_3&Prime; _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.27.4&Prime; _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb theme_builder_area=\u00a0\u00bbpost_content\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_image src=\u00a0\u00bbhttps:\/\/sparthritis.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Start-and-End-Points.jpg\u00a0\u00bb title_text=\u00a0\u00bbStart and End Points\u00a0\u00bb show_in_lightbox=\u00a0\u00bbon\u00a0\u00bb force_fullwidth=\u00a0\u00bbon\u00a0\u00bb _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.27.4&Prime; _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb theme_builder_area=\u00a0\u00bbpost_content\u00a0\u00bb][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.27.4&Prime; _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb custom_margin=\u00a0\u00bb-45px||||false|false\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb theme_builder_area=\u00a0\u00bbpost_content\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_column type=\u00a0\u00bb4_4&Prime; _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.27.4&Prime; _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb theme_builder_area=\u00a0\u00bbpost_content\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.27.4&Prime; _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb theme_builder_area=\u00a0\u00bbpost_content\u00a0\u00bb]<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">J&rsquo;ai obtenu mon dipl\u00f4me universitaire peu apr\u00e8s le d\u00e9but de la pand\u00e9mie et on m&rsquo;a alors diagnostiqu\u00e9 une spondylarthrite ankylosante, une forme chronique et progressive d&rsquo;arthrite inflammatoire. Pour un jeune homme de 22 ans, c&rsquo;\u00e9tait une nouvelle d\u00e9vastatrice. Je souffrais \u00e9norm\u00e9ment et, malgr\u00e9 le soulagement d&rsquo;avoir un diagnostic formel, l&rsquo;id\u00e9e qu&rsquo;il y avait maintenant tout un monde de choses que je ne pourrais pas faire m&rsquo;a sembl\u00e9 impossible \u00e0 traiter et \u00e0 accepter. J&rsquo;\u00e9tais dans une situation unique o\u00f9 j&rsquo;ai pu me concentrer pleinement sur la compr\u00e9hension et la ma\u00eetrise de la maladie tout en travaillant \u00e0 distance pendant le pic de la pand\u00e9mie, en concentrant l&rsquo;essentiel de mon \u00e9nergie sur la gestion de mon \u00e9tat de sant\u00e9 qui semblait s&rsquo;\u00eatre emball\u00e9. C&rsquo;\u00e9tait loin d&rsquo;\u00eatre parfait, mais j&rsquo;ai acquis des strat\u00e9gies qui m&rsquo;ont permis de r\u00e9duire mes pouss\u00e9es et d&rsquo;am\u00e9liorer ma qualit\u00e9 de vie.<\/span>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.27.4&Prime; _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb locked=\u00a0\u00bboff\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb theme_builder_area=\u00a0\u00bbpost_content\u00a0\u00bb]<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I leaned on many of the services offered by the CSA. I met regularly with support groups, joined the piloted mental wellness coaching series, read basically every article and blog on the CSA\u2019s website and spoke with a number of individuals affiliated with the CSA about their experiences managing the disease. The sense of community I found with others facing similar challenges was highly comforting and empowered me to redefine what was possible.<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There is such a vast array of the impacts that this disease has on people\u2019s lives. Though there are people who have struggled significantly with this disease for decades, there is, contrastingly, a sizeable demographic of people with arthritis who are living full, happy, healthy lives. I hope that my story might help to inspire those struggling with their diagnoses. Simply put, this is the type of article that I wish I had had the opportunity to read when I was newly diagnosed.<\/span>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=\u00a0\u00bbhttps:\/\/sparthritis.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/LA-Aquaduct.jpg\u00a0\u00bb title_text=\u00a0\u00bbLA Aquaduct\u00a0\u00bb _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.27.4&Prime; _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb theme_builder_area=\u00a0\u00bbpost_content\u00a0\u00bb][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.27.4&Prime; _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb locked=\u00a0\u00bboff\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb theme_builder_area=\u00a0\u00bbpost_content\u00a0\u00bb]<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lorsque j&rsquo;ai commenc\u00e9 le PCT \u00e0 la fronti\u00e8re mexicaine, j&rsquo;ai ressenti un m\u00e9lange d&rsquo;excitation et d&rsquo;anticipation, parmi beaucoup d&rsquo;autres sentiments. Pour terminer le sentier, les randonneurs doivent parcourir environ 17,5 miles (28 km) par jour pendant cinq mois d&rsquo;affil\u00e9e. Le premier jour, je n&rsquo;ai parcouru que 7,5 miles avant de m&rsquo;effondrer dans mon sac de couchage. \u00c0 la fin, je parcourais environ 24 miles par jour, ce que je n&rsquo;aurais jamais imagin\u00e9 au d\u00e9part. J&rsquo;attribue en grande partie la r\u00e9ussite du PCT aux nombreuses comp\u00e9tences que j&rsquo;ai acquises au fil des ans dans la gestion de mon arthrite.<\/span>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.27.4&Prime; _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb locked=\u00a0\u00bboff\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb theme_builder_area=\u00a0\u00bbpost_content\u00a0\u00bb]<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Le PCT m&rsquo;a mis \u00e0 l&rsquo;\u00e9preuve d&rsquo;une mani\u00e8re qui refl\u00e9tait mes probl\u00e8mes d&rsquo;arthrite et a \u00e9t\u00e9 un voyage aussi mental que physique. Physiquement, j&rsquo;ai d\u00fb faire face \u00e0 la chaleur torride du d\u00e9sert, \u00e0 la travers\u00e9e de rivi\u00e8res dans les montagnes de la Sierra Nevada, \u00e0 la fum\u00e9e des incendies de for\u00eat, \u00e0 l&rsquo;hypothermie, au mal de l&rsquo;altitude et \u00e0 des animaux sauvages comme les ours et les serpents \u00e0 sonnette. Les rigueurs physiques de la piste \u00e9taient simples : se r\u00e9veiller, marcher, d\u00e9jeuner, marcher encore, monter le camp, dormir, puis recommencer. Cependant, les d\u00e9fis mentaux \u00e9taient sans doute plus difficiles \u00e0 relever. Les longues p\u00e9riodes de solitude m&rsquo;ont oblig\u00e9 \u00e0 faire face \u00e0 mes pens\u00e9es : Je ne peux pas faire \u00e7a. Pourquoi est-ce que je fais cela ? Quel est le but de ma vie et de la vie elle-m\u00eame ? Quelle est la direction que je veux donner \u00e0 ma vie et pourquoi n&rsquo;y parviens-je pas ? Ces moments ressemblaient beaucoup \u00e0 la charge \u00e9motionnelle d&rsquo;une pouss\u00e9e. J&rsquo;ai d\u00fb reconna\u00eetre les sch\u00e9mas de pens\u00e9e n\u00e9gatifs, m&rsquo;asseoir avec mes sentiments et d\u00e9cider d&rsquo;accepter ce que je vivais. Malgr\u00e9 la douleur ou l&rsquo;inconfort que je ressentais, je devais faire le choix de ne pas en souffrir. Cette r\u00e9sistance mentale m&rsquo;a permis de surmonter les jours les plus difficiles.<\/span>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.27.4&Prime; _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb locked=\u00a0\u00bboff\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb theme_builder_area=\u00a0\u00bbpost_content\u00a0\u00bb]<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">La vie sur les sentiers exige une capacit\u00e9 d&rsquo;adaptation constante. \u00c0 Idyllwild, en Californie, j&rsquo;ai eu un malencontreux accrochage avec un micro-ondes qui m&rsquo;a envoy\u00e9 \u00e0 l&rsquo;h\u00f4pital pour des points de suture et m&rsquo;a valu le surnom de \u00ab Eggnado \u00bb (les surnoms sont un rite de passage sur le PCT). En un instant, j&rsquo;ai d\u00fb comprendre pour la premi\u00e8re fois comment contacter mon assurance internationale, me rendre \u00e0 l&rsquo;h\u00f4pital le plus proche tard dans la nuit, dans une ville isol\u00e9e sans bus ni covoiturage, et g\u00e9rer ma blessure avec des fournitures limit\u00e9es. La vie sur la piste m&rsquo;a oblig\u00e9e \u00e0 devenir compl\u00e8tement autonome, \u00e0 g\u00e9rer la logistique et \u00e0 prendre des d\u00e9cisions en mati\u00e8re de s\u00e9curit\u00e9 tous les jours. C&rsquo;\u00e9tait parfois fatigant, mais extr\u00eamement stimulant. Avant de parcourir le PCT, l&rsquo;id\u00e9e d&rsquo;avoir un jour besoin de m\u00e9dicaments biologiques me retournait l&rsquo;estomac et l&rsquo;id\u00e9e de voyager \u00e0 l&rsquo;\u00e9tranger tout en prenant des m\u00e9dicaments biologiques me semblait irr\u00e9aliste. Aujourd&rsquo;hui, je suis convaincue que c&rsquo;est quelque chose que je peux g\u00e9rer et cela a rendu la perspective d&rsquo;avoir un jour besoin de m\u00e9dicaments biologiques beaucoup moins effrayante.<\/span>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=\u00a0\u00bbhttps:\/\/sparthritis.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Mt-Baden-Powell.jpg\u00a0\u00bb title_text=\u00a0\u00bbMt Baden Powell\u00a0\u00bb _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.27.4&Prime; _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb theme_builder_area=\u00a0\u00bbpost_content\u00a0\u00bb][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.27.4&Prime; _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb locked=\u00a0\u00bboff\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb theme_builder_area=\u00a0\u00bbpost_content\u00a0\u00bb]<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">L&rsquo;aspect physique de la piste \u00e9tait un autre obstacle \u00e0 surmonter. J&rsquo;ai longtemps entendu dire que les seules limites sont celles que l&rsquo;on se fixe soi-m\u00eame. Il fut un temps o\u00f9 le simple fait d&rsquo;envisager de parcourir le PCT me paraissait insens\u00e9. Comment moi, qui souffre presque tous les jours, pouvais-je faire quelque chose comme marcher pendant cinq mois d&rsquo;affil\u00e9e ? J&rsquo;ai dout\u00e9 de moi, me demandant si mon corps \u00e9tait capable de relever un tel d\u00e9fi. J&rsquo;ai travaill\u00e9 \u00e0 renforcer ma condition physique dans les mois qui ont pr\u00e9c\u00e9d\u00e9 le d\u00e9but de la randonn\u00e9e, mais j&rsquo;ai d\u00fb faire face \u00e0 des blessures, au stress de la vie et \u00e0 des pouss\u00e9es de fi\u00e8vre. En commen\u00e7ant par quelques kilom\u00e8tres par jour au d\u00e9but du parcours, j&rsquo;ai progressivement augment\u00e9 mon endurance. J&rsquo;ai rencontr\u00e9 une \u00ab trail family \u00bb (un groupe de randonneurs qui se serrent les coudes) et, ensemble, nous avons r\u00e9guli\u00e8rement augment\u00e9 notre kilom\u00e9trage, en affrontant les premiers d\u00e9fis du d\u00e9sert. Au fil du temps, l&rsquo;exercice quotidien a renforc\u00e9 mon corps et la randonn\u00e9e est devenue plus facile. En peu de temps, j&rsquo;ai commenc\u00e9 \u00e0 parcourir 20 miles par jour, en suivant le rythme des autres. Avec de la patience, ce qui semblait autrefois physiquement impossible est devenu ma r\u00e9alit\u00e9.<\/span>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.27.4&Prime; _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb locked=\u00a0\u00bboff\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb theme_builder_area=\u00a0\u00bbpost_content\u00a0\u00bb]<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">L&rsquo;alimentation sur le sentier \u00e9tait un autre obstacle, car les randonneurs ne sont pas exactement connus pour leurs habitudes alimentaires saines. Compte tenu de mon IMC, mon corps a g\u00e9n\u00e9ralement besoin d&rsquo;environ 1 800 calories par jour. En comparaison, sur le sentier, j&rsquo;avais pour objectif de consommer entre 3 500 et 4 000 calories par jour afin de r\u00e9pondre \u00e0 mes besoins \u00e9nerg\u00e9tiques sans perdre de poids. Les aliments de randonn\u00e9e les plus caloriques, comme le Nutella, les tortillas, les barres chocolat\u00e9es, les ramen et la pur\u00e9e de pommes de terre instantan\u00e9e, sont loin d&rsquo;\u00eatre id\u00e9aux lorsqu&rsquo;il s&rsquo;agit de g\u00e9rer une maladie auto-immune inflammatoire. Je devais faire attention \u00e0 mes choix, sachant qu&rsquo;un exc\u00e8s de malbouffe pouvait d\u00e9clencher une pouss\u00e9e. J&rsquo;ai donc opt\u00e9 pour des options l\u00e9g\u00e8rement meilleures, en consommant sans cesse des barres de c\u00e9r\u00e9ales, des noix, des fruits secs, de la viande s\u00e9ch\u00e9e, du salami, du fromage et des sachets de poulet ou de thon. Trouver un \u00e9quilibre entre les calories et la sant\u00e9 \u00e9tait un exercice de jonglage permanent.<\/span>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=\u00a0\u00bbhttps:\/\/sparthritis.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Mt-Whitney.jpg\u00a0\u00bb title_text=\u00a0\u00bbMt Whitney\u00a0\u00bb _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.27.4&Prime; _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb theme_builder_area=\u00a0\u00bbpost_content\u00a0\u00bb][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.27.4&Prime; _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb locked=\u00a0\u00bboff\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb theme_builder_area=\u00a0\u00bbpost_content\u00a0\u00bb]<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Additionally, to keep hiking, I had to prioritize self-care, even when others didn\u2019t always understand. In the first eight weeks on the trail, I discovered I couldn\u2019t hike for more than an hour before my back would stiffen and ache. Taking 10-minute breaks every hour became essential, and I continued this practice throughout most of my hike. This practice allowed me to sustainably hike 10\u201312 hours a day sustainably for 5 months. Sleep was another non-negotiable. Unlike some of the younger, more energetic thru-hikers who could get by on 7 hours, I needed between 8\u20139 hours of rest every night to adequately recover and carryed an inflatable pillow, a pillow case that I stuffed with a sweater for between my knees, and even an emergency blanket for extra warmth on cold nights (as I am a notoriously cold sleeper). Though I often had to regularly shift positions during the night to relieve back discomfort, this setup was just comfortable enough to be sustainable. It certainly was different than sleeping on my soft bed at home with 3 pillows propping up my knees and back.<\/span>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.27.4&Prime; _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb locked=\u00a0\u00bboff\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb theme_builder_area=\u00a0\u00bbpost_content\u00a0\u00bb]<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lorsque j&rsquo;ai travers\u00e9 l&rsquo;Oregon, j&rsquo;ai commenc\u00e9 \u00e0 ressentir d&rsquo;\u00e9normes douleurs aux pieds.C&rsquo;\u00e9tait souvent le signe qu&rsquo;il \u00e9tait temps d&rsquo;acheter une nouvelle paire de chaussures.Malheureusement, m\u00eame apr\u00e8s avoir chang\u00e9 de chaussures et d&rsquo;orth\u00e8ses, ma douleur n&rsquo;a fait qu&#8217;empirer.Apr\u00e8s des semaines d&rsquo;aggravation progressive de la douleur, j&rsquo;ai finalement boit\u00e9 jusqu&rsquo;\u00e0 Sisters, dans l&rsquo;Oregon, et j&rsquo;ai consult\u00e9 une physioth\u00e9rapeute.Elle m&rsquo;a dit que je souffrais probablement \u00e0 la fois de fasciite plantaire et de neuropathie dans les pieds, deux affections courantes chez les randonneurs \u00e0 cet endroit du sentier.Elle m&rsquo;a propos\u00e9 des solutions temporaires, mais a reconnu que la douleur ne dispara\u00eetrait pas compl\u00e8tement tant que je n&rsquo;aurais pas termin\u00e9 la randonn\u00e9e.Cela signifie que pendant la majeure partie du reste du sentier, j&rsquo;ai march\u00e9 dans la douleur.Alors que d&rsquo;autres randonneurs faisaient des journ\u00e9es de 30 miles, j&rsquo;ai lutt\u00e9 pour atteindre 25 miles, en faisant fr\u00e9quemment des pauses et en luttant pour garder un \u00e9tat d&rsquo;esprit positif. Pourtant, ce d\u00e9fi me semblait familier. Vivre avec une maladie invisible signifie que les autres, m\u00eame mes amis proches et ma famille, savent rarement que je souffre. J&rsquo;ai l&rsquo;habitude de fonctionner avec un certain niveau de douleur physique, sans pour autant exprimer cet inconfort. Comme le dit le vieil adage, la vie ne s&rsquo;arr\u00eate pas parce qu&rsquo;on souffre. Sur la piste comme \u00e0 la maison, j&rsquo;ai souvent d\u00fb faire taire la voix qui me disait \u00ab Ow, arr\u00eate s&rsquo;il te pla\u00eet, \u00e7a fait trop mal \u00bb et me contenter de mettre un pied devant l&rsquo;autre, m\u00eame si c&rsquo;\u00e9tait tr\u00e8s lent.<\/span>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=\u00a0\u00bb1_2,1_2&Prime; _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.27.4&Prime; _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb theme_builder_area=\u00a0\u00bbpost_content\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_column type=\u00a0\u00bb1_2&Prime; _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.27.4&Prime; _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb theme_builder_area=\u00a0\u00bbpost_content\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_image src=\u00a0\u00bbhttps:\/\/sparthritis.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Northern-Terminus.jpg\u00a0\u00bb title_text=\u00a0\u00bbNorthern Terminus\u00a0\u00bb _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.27.4&Prime; _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb max_height=\u00a0\u00bb521px\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb theme_builder_area=\u00a0\u00bbpost_content\u00a0\u00bb][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\u00a0\u00bb1_2&Prime; _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.27.4&Prime; _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb theme_builder_area=\u00a0\u00bbpost_content\u00a0\u00bb][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.27.4&Prime; _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb locked=\u00a0\u00bboff\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb theme_builder_area=\u00a0\u00bbpost_content\u00a0\u00bb]<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Le PCT a \u00e9t\u00e9 un voyage incroyable. Un voyage qui m&rsquo;a rempli, d\u00e9chir\u00e9 et reconstruit.En chemin, j&rsquo;ai vu certains des plus beaux paysages et j&rsquo;ai rencontr\u00e9 d&rsquo;innombrables personnes merveilleuses, saines, chaleureuses, infiniment g\u00e9n\u00e9reuses, hilarantes et bienveillantes.Cette aventure a laiss\u00e9 une marque ind\u00e9l\u00e9bile sur moi, et je pourrais continuer \u00e0 dire \u00e0 quel point elle a compt\u00e9 pour moi.Si vous ne retenez qu&rsquo;une chose de mon histoire, que ce soit celle-ci : vous \u00eates bien plus que votre maladie, et les choses qui vous semblent impossibles aujourd&rsquo;hui pourraient bien \u00eatre \u00e0 votre port\u00e9e demain.Je ne suis pas extraordinaire, je suis juste quelqu&rsquo;un qui a d\u00e9cid\u00e9 de faire un pas apr\u00e8s l&rsquo;autre, arthrite et tout, et de marcher du Mexique au Canada.Vous \u00eates capable de plus que vous ne le pensez.<\/span>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>On dit qu&rsquo;un voyage de 1000 miles commence par un seul pas. Si vous souffrez d&rsquo;arthrite ou de toute autre forme de douleur chronique, vous savez que cette citation est [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":35,"featured_media":33211,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" _builder_version=\"4.27.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" da_disable_devices=\"off|off|off\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" da_is_popup=\"off\" da_exit_intent=\"off\" da_has_close=\"on\" da_alt_close=\"off\" da_dark_close=\"off\" da_not_modal=\"on\" da_is_singular=\"off\" da_with_loader=\"off\" da_has_shadow=\"on\"][et_pb_row _builder_version=\"4.27.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" locked=\"off\"][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\" _builder_version=\"4.27.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_button button_text=\"DONATE NOW\" button_alignment=\"center\" _builder_version=\"4.27.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" custom_button=\"on\" button_text_size=\"22px\" hover_enabled=\"0\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" module_class=\"cc-open-donation-form\" sticky_enabled=\"0\"][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=\"2_3,1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.27.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_column type=\"2_3\" _builder_version=\"4.27.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.27.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">They say that a journey of 1000 miles begins with a single step. Now if you have arthritis or any form of chronic pain disease, you know this to be an especially daunting quote. In high school, I read Wild by Cheryl Strayed. A story of a troubled, newly divorced woman who decided to walk the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), a trail that goes from the California-Mexico border, up through California, Oregon, Washington, and into Manning Park, BC, by herself. Her journey inspired me and by the time I finished university, the idea had taken root and became something that I knew I had to do.<\/span><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_code _builder_version=\"4.27.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" hover_enabled=\"0\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_enabled=\"0\"]<script type=\"module\" crossorigin src=\"https:\/\/sparthritis.crowdchange.ca\/js\/91291\/embed.js\"><\/script>[\/et_pb_code][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\"1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.27.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_image src=\"https:\/\/sparthritis.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Start-and-End-Points.jpg\" title_text=\"Start and End Points\" show_in_lightbox=\"on\" _builder_version=\"4.27.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" hover_enabled=\"0\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" force_fullwidth=\"on\" sticky_enabled=\"0\"][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\"4.27.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" hover_enabled=\"0\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_margin=\"-45px||||false|false\" sticky_enabled=\"0\"][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\" _builder_version=\"4.27.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.27.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I graduated from university shortly after the start of the pandemic and was subsequently diagnosed with Ankylosing Spondylitis \u2013 a chronic progressive form of inflammatory arthritis. As a 22-year-old, this was devastating news. I was in so much pain and despite the relief of having a formal diagnosis, the idea that there was now a whole world of things that I wouldn\u2019t be able to do felt impossible to process and accept. I was in the unique position where I was able to fully focus on understanding and mastering the disease while working remotely during the peak of the pandemic, focusing the bulk of my energy into managing my seemingly run-away health. It was far from perfect, but I gained strategies that helped my flare ups become less extreme and improved my quality of life.<\/span>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.27.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" locked=\"off\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I leaned on many of the services offered by the CSA. I met regularly with support groups, joined the piloted mental wellness coaching series, read basically every article and blog on the CSA\u2019s website and spoke with a number of individuals affiliated with the CSA about their experiences managing the disease. The sense of community I found with others facing similar challenges was highly comforting and empowered me to redefine what was possible.\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There is such a vast array of the impacts that this disease has on people\u2019s lives. Though there are people who have struggled significantly with this disease for decades, there is, contrastingly, a sizeable demographic of people with arthritis who are living full, happy, healthy lives. I hope that my story might help to inspire those struggling with their diagnoses. Simply put, this is the type of article that I wish I had had the opportunity to read when I was newly diagnosed.<\/span>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=\"https:\/\/sparthritis.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/LA-Aquaduct.jpg\" title_text=\"LA Aquaduct\" _builder_version=\"4.27.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.27.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" locked=\"off\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When I started the PCT at the Mexican border, I felt a mix of excitement and anticipation, among many other feelings. To complete the trail, hikers to cover about 17.5 miles (28 km) daily for five months straight. My first day, I managed only 7.5 miles before collapsing into my sleeping bag. By the end, I was hiking roughly 24 miles per day\u2014something I never would have imagined when I began. I attribute a large part of being able to successfully complete the PCT, to the many skills I\u2019ve acquired over the years managing my arthritis.<\/span>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.27.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" locked=\"off\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The PCT tested me in ways that mirrored my challenges with arthritis and was as much a mental journey as it was a physical one. Physically, I faced scorching desert heat, river crossings in the Sierra Nevada mountains, wildfire smoke, hypothermia-inducing conditions, altitude sickness, and wildlife like bears and rattlesnakes. The physical rigours of the trail were simple \u2013 wake up, hike, have lunch, hike some more, set up camp, sleep, then repeat. However, the mental challenges were arguably harder. Long stretches of solitude forced me to confront my thoughts: I can\u2019t do this. Why am I doing this? What is the purpose of my life and life itself? What direction do I want my life to go and why can\u2019t I figure that out? These moments felt very similar to the emotional toll of a flare-up. I had to recognize the negative thought patterns, sit with the feelings, and then decide to be okay with what I was experiencing. Despite the pain or discomfort I was feeling, I had to make the choice to not suffer because of it. This mental resilience carried me through the hardest days.<\/span>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.27.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" locked=\"off\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Trail life demanded constant adaptability. In Idyllwild, California, I had an unfortunate run in with a microwave that sent me to the hospital for stitches and earned me the trail name \u201cEggnado\u201d (nicknames are a rite of passage on the PCT). Within an instant, I had to figure out for the first time how to contact my international insurance, get to the nearest hospital late at night in a remote town with no buses or rideshares, and manage my injury with limited supplies. Life on trail required me to become completely self-reliant, navigating logistics and safety decisions daily. It was tiring at times but hugely empowering. Prior to hiking the PCT, the thought of one day needing biologics made my stomach turn and the idea of travelling abroad while on biologics seemed unrealistic. I am now confident that this is something I can manage and has made the prospect of one day needing biologics considerably less scary.<\/span>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=\"https:\/\/sparthritis.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Mt-Baden-Powell.jpg\" title_text=\"Mt Baden Powell\" _builder_version=\"4.27.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.27.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" locked=\"off\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The physicalness of the trail was another hurdle to tackle. I\u2019ve long heard that the only limits are the ones you set yourself. There was a time when even considering hiking the PCT seemed insane. How can I, someone who experiences pain almost daily, do something like hike for 5 months straight? I wrestled with self-doubt, questioning whether my body could handle such a challenge. I worked on building up my conditioning in the months before starting trail but struggled with injuries, life stressors and flare ups. Starting with just a few miles a day at the start of the trail, I gradually increased my endurance. I connected with a trail family (a group of hikers that stick together), and together we steadily built up our mileage, navigating the desert\u2019s early challenges. Over time, the daily exercise strengthened my body, and hiking became easier. Before long, I was tackling 20 miles a day, keeping pace with others. With patience, what once seemed physically impossible became my reality.<\/span>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.27.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" locked=\"off\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nutrition on trail was another obstacle, as thru hikers aren\u2019t exactly known for their healthy eating habits. Given my BMI, my body generally needs about 1800 calories daily. In comparison, on trail, I was aiming to consume between 3500 \u2013 4000 calories daily in order to meet my energy demands without losing weight. The most calorically dense hiking foods\u2014like Nutella, tortillas, candy bars, ramen, and instant mashed potatoes\u2014are far from ideal when it comes to managing an inflammatory autoimmune disease. I had to be mindful of my choices, knowing that too much junk food could trigger a flare up. Instead, I relied on slightly better options, consuming endless granola bars, nuts, dried fruit, jerky, salami, cheese, and packets of chicken or tuna. Balancing calories and health was a constant juggling act.<\/span>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=\"https:\/\/sparthritis.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Mt-Whitney.jpg\" title_text=\"Mt Whitney\" _builder_version=\"4.27.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.27.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" locked=\"off\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Additionally, to keep hiking, I had to prioritize self-care, even when others didn\u2019t always understand. In the first eight weeks on the trail, I discovered I couldn\u2019t hike for more than an hour before my back would stiffen and ache. Taking 10-minute breaks every hour became essential, and I continued this practice throughout most of my hike. This practice allowed me to sustainably hike 10\u201312 hours a day sustainably for 5 months. Sleep was another non-negotiable. Unlike some of the younger, more energetic thru-hikers who could get by on 7 hours, I needed between 8\u20139 hours of rest every night to adequately recover and carryed an inflatable pillow, a pillow case that I stuffed with a sweater for between my knees, and even an emergency blanket for extra warmth on cold nights (as I am a notoriously cold sleeper). Though I often had to regularly shift positions during the night to relieve back discomfort, this setup was just comfortable enough to be sustainable. It certainly was different than sleeping on my soft bed at home with 3 pillows propping up my knees and back.<\/span>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.27.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" locked=\"off\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When I crossed into Oregon, I began having a tremendous amount of foot pain. Often, an indication that it was time to get a new pair of shoes. Unfortunately, even after swapping out my shoes and orthotics, my pain only worsened. After weeks of progressively worsen pain, I finally limped into Sisters, Oregon and consulted with a physiotherapist. She said that I had likely both plantar fasciitis and neuropathy in my feet, both common among hikers at this point on trail. She offered temporary solutions but acknowledged that the pain wouldn\u2019t fully subside until I finished the hike. This meant that for most of the rest of the trail I was hiking in pain. While other hikers were pushing 30-mile days, I struggled to hit 25 miles, frequently taking breaks and struggling to maintain a positive outlook. Yet, this challenge felt familiar. Living with an invisible disease means that others, even my close friends and family, rarely know when I am in pain. I am used to operating with a certain level of physical pain, while not vocalizing that discomfort. As the old adage goes, life doesn\u2019t stop just because you are in pain. Both on trail and at home, I often had to quiet the voice saying \u201cOw, stop please, this hurts too much\u201d and just focus on putting one foot in front of the other, no matter how slowly.<\/span>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=\"1_2,1_2\" _builder_version=\"4.27.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_column type=\"1_2\" _builder_version=\"4.27.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_image src=\"https:\/\/sparthritis.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Northern-Terminus.jpg\" title_text=\"Northern Terminus\" _builder_version=\"4.27.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" max_height=\"521px\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\"1_2\" _builder_version=\"4.27.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.27.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" locked=\"off\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The PCT was an incredible journey. One that filled me up, tore me down and built me up again. Along the way, I saw some of the most beautiful landscapes and connected with countless wonderful, wholesome, warm, endlessly generous, hilarious and caring people. This adventure left an indelible mark on me, and I could go on about how much it meant to me. If you take one thing away from my story, let it be this: you are so much more than your disease, and the things that feel impossible today might just be within your reach tomorrow. I\u2019m not extraordinary\u2014I\u2019m just someone who decided to take one step after another, arthritis and all, and walk from Mexico to Canada. You are capable of more than you think.<\/span>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\"4.27.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\" _builder_version=\"4.27.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_button button_text=\"DONATE NOW\" button_alignment=\"center\" _builder_version=\"4.27.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" custom_button=\"on\" button_text_size=\"22px\" hover_enabled=\"0\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" module_class=\"cc-open-donation-form\" sticky_enabled=\"0\"][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]","_et_gb_content_width":"","_price":"","_stock":"","_tribe_ticket_header":"","_tribe_default_ticket_provider":"","_tribe_ticket_capacity":"0","_ticket_start_date":"","_ticket_end_date":"","_tribe_ticket_show_description":"","_tribe_ticket_show_not_going":false,"_tribe_ticket_use_global_stock":"","_tribe_ticket_global_stock_level":"","_global_stock_mode":"","_global_stock_cap":"","_tribe_rsvp_for_event":"","_tribe_ticket_going_count":"","_tribe_ticket_not_going_count":"","_tribe_tickets_list":"[]","_tribe_ticket_has_attendee_info_fields":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[344,389,197],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-33267","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-blog-posts-fr","category-campagne-de-dons","category-vos-histoires"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/sparthritis.ca\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/33267","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/sparthritis.ca\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/sparthritis.ca\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sparthritis.ca\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/35"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sparthritis.ca\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=33267"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/sparthritis.ca\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/33267\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sparthritis.ca\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/33211"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/sparthritis.ca\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=33267"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sparthritis.ca\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=33267"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sparthritis.ca\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=33267"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}