I spent this week popping toothpicks in my eye-lids (to keep them open, that is) and soaking my feet in a hot tub of water every night -- all because of running 100 miles per hour attending the American College of Rheumatology's annual scientific meeting.

Or, as we know it, the Super Bowl of arthritis:  tens of thousands of rheumatologists from around the world descend on a city for a week (Philly this year) to share their experiences, exchange best practices, and envy the chic fashion style of the European physicians.  They're hot.

We're gathering lots of information about what's new and exciting, taking in the data at press conferences, and saying hi to old friends (doctors, nurses, and more) we have met and known throughout the years.

I find myself in sheer amazement at the size of this conference -- left pondering how many rheumatologists there are in the world.  Every corner, too!  From Kenya to Japan to Iceland to Milwaukee (yes, Milwaukee), there is a specialist who has dedicated his or her life to helping people like us feel better.

I've had early mornings and late nights these past several days -- fueled mainly by the energy I get from meeting everyone who is so excited about the world of rheumatology.

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