UAE Mum of Twins Shares Inspiring Journey of Living with Arthritis

An Emirati university lecturer and mother of twin girls has shared her inspiring journey of living with rheumatoid arthritis since her teenage years, highlighting how determination, family support and medical care have helped her pursue her personal and professional ambitions.

Alya Al Marzooqi, 34, began experiencing symptoms at the age of 14. However, it took around three years for doctors to identify her condition.

Today, she balances her career, motherhood and PhD studies at a university in Dubai.

Arthritis Symptoms Began at 14

“I used to be extremely stiff, to the extent that I could barely hold a pen or write,” Alya recalled. “

It was really hard to do anything with my hands, and it affected all my joints.”

After years of medical tests, Alya was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease that causes chronic joint pain, stiffness and inflammation.

Despite these challenges, she continued her education.

When writing became difficult, she relied on reading and memorisation and eventually graduated as the top student in her class.

Building a Career Despite Challenges

“I had to make a few adjustments to my work schedule while trying to look after my joints,” Alya explained.

She uses special wrist supports and seeks assistance with tasks that put additional strain on her joints.

These adjustments have helped her continue doing the work she enjoys while managing her condition.

Alya completed her bachelor's and master's degrees and now works as a university lecturer.

She is also completing her PhD thesis on the relationship between leaders' emotional intelligence and workplace culture in the UAE.

Motherhood Brought New Challenges

When Alya planned her pregnancy, her treatment needed to be reviewed because some rheumatoid arthritis medications are unsuitable during pregnancy.

Her symptoms became severe, affecting her ability to stand and walk.

“I was really worried about my health condition during my pregnancy, especially since I had twins,” she said.

After consulting her doctor, she changed her treatment plan and received injections during the first and second trimesters.

She also experienced complications, including preeclampsia, during the third trimester.

Following the birth of her daughters, Alya resumed biological treatment under medical supervision.

She also underwent surgery to address affected joints.

“It was really hard, but my husband, family, and nursing care helped me through this period,” she said.

Raising Awareness About Arthritis

Alya hopes her experience will encourage people living with rheumatoid arthritis to continue pursuing their ambitions while taking care of their health.

She believes people with the condition should continue studying, working, exercising and building families while making appropriate adjustments to protect their joints.

Medical professionals emphasise that early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are important in managing rheumatoid arthritis and reducing the risk of permanent joint damage.

To mark World Arthritis Day on October 12, the Middle East Arthritis Foundation is promoting awareness of the condition.

Its community day is scheduled for October 24 in Dubai, with activities intended to support people living with arthritis.

Alya's experience highlights the importance of medical care, personal determination and family support in helping people with chronic conditions pursue their goals.