Anyone have polymylagia, or know someone who does?

I was just diagnosed with polymylagia rheumatica today, and was curious if anyone here has had it or dealt with it in some way. The Dr explained it as a rheumatoid / autoimmune disease that best responds to steroid treatment. I am a diabetic (in good health / control), and have been a very physically active person until now. I'm a cop and a volunteer FF/Medic, who now cannot do my job because of the pain level. I have very intense pain in my neck and shoulders on movement, and a dramatically reduced range of motion in my arms. This obviously prevents me from working as an officer, or making any type of response with the Fire Department. I can barely type now. I was fine, completely asymptomatic 72 hrs ago, and this is completely atraumatic in nature. I don't want to try steroid therapy right off because I don't want to screw my blood sugar up. I'll do what the Doc says,but anyone's comments based on practical experience or additional knowledge would be greatly appreciated.

I have systemic lupus which is also autoimmune. I refuse steroids although Rheumatologists only recommend them. It's a quick fix.... you stop complaining to them cuz you feel better... but you're having to deal w/all these nasty side effects.

I take many medications including pain medication. The pain medication gave me my life back. I can fully function and without it, I hurt so much, I can barely move.

I was dx'd at 20 and refused to start daily Prednisone and end up w/all the side effects. There are ways around using steroids.
Exercise, nsaid's, tricyclics, etc... lots of things available.

You were fine 72 hrs ago? What's your sed rate? RF? I'm curious as to how you could be diagnosed w/ an autoimmune disease in such a short time.