The Steroid Go-Round

I am flaring, so I am once again doing the taper dosage of steroids. At least it isn't flu season. I will have to be extra careful to not catch anything after I start taking them tomorrow. I don't know ho wlong my immune system will be down afterwards, but I'm guessing three weeks of caution is a safe bet.
My fingers hurt. I wake up with red, swollen knuckles. My knee makes me cry out. I am having trouble sleeping, but now I have Lunesta, which I will probably try soon. As bad as it gets, I have a drive to live. I am 26. I'm not ready to lay down and die. I probably never will be.
Life is meant to be lived, and I won't give in or give up that easily. I will achieve my dreams. I will live with purpose no matter what being sick throws at me.