Wonders if 'Claire's' frustrations are real
Dear Annie: I've been a member of a local chapter of a prominent national organization for a little over three years. In recent months, "Claire," a member of our ladies auxiliary, has been venting her frustrations at me over her perceived treatment from other ladies in the group. I've listened to her when she wanted to get something off her chest, but lately I'm left wondering if these frustrations are real or imagined.
When I see Claire with these other women, I sense no animosity. I've even told Claire that I like her, and I also like some of the women who supposedly give her a hard time, and I don't want to take sides.
I've spoken to our chapter president about this, worried that Claire might quit. We need all the volunteers we can get. And Claire's husband, who is very supportive and valuable to our organization, would undoubtedly quit as well. The president said he would speak to Claire and her husband, but in the meantime, should I remain a "listening post" next time she vents? Impartial Listener
Dear Impartial: Claire may be hypersensitive to minor slights, she may want attention, or she may, in fact, not get along with these women. If you can allow her to vent without registering approval (nod absently while she goes on), that would probably help Claire see you as a friend. If you don't want to hear her complaints, however, it's perfectly OK to distance yourself as politely as possible.
Dear Annie: One in 31 adults has arthritis, and there are 300,000 children with arthritis. The Arthritis Foundation is the largest private nonprofit contributor to arthritis research. We are doing our best to get information to the community.
Some types of arthritis include:
Osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease in which the cartilage that covers the ends of bones in the joint deteriorates, causing pain and loss of movement as bone begins to rub against bone. It is the most prevalent form of arthritis.
Rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease in which the joint lining becomes inflamed as part of the body's immune system activity. Rheumatoid arthritis is one of the most serious and disabling types, affecting mostly women.
Gout, which affects mostly men. This painful condition most often attacks small joints, especially the big toe. Fortunately, gout almost always can be completely controlled with medication and changes in diet.
Ankylosing spondylitis, a type of arthritis that affects the spine. As a result of inflammation, the bones of the spine grow together.
Juvenile arthritis, a general term for all types of arthritis that occur in children. Children may develop juvenile rheumatoid arthritis or childhood forms of lupus, ankylosing spondylitis or other types of arthritis.
Systemic lupus erythematosus (lupus), a serious disorder that can inflame and damage joints and other connective tissues throughout the body.
Scleroderma, a disease of the body's connective tissue that causes a thickening and hardening of the skin.
Fibromyalgia, in which widespread pain affects the muscles and attachments to the bone. It affects mostly women.
Arthritis is not just an "old person's disease." Arthritis and related conditions cost the U.S. economy nearly 86.2 billion per year in medical care and indirect expenses. The Arthritis Foundation wants you to know who we are. We look forward to meeting new faces and building relationships. For more information, log on to www.arthritis.org or call the Arthritis Foundation nearest you. Carla Bourg, Jacksonville, Fla.
Dear Carla Bourg: Thanks for writing. We hope our readers will log on to your Web site for more information or contact their local foundation.
Creators Syndicate
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