Renee Constant, arthritis warrior mom, joined the walk as a team captain in 2018 and a committee member in 2019. Her daughter, Roslyn, has juvenile arthritis and has served as the Youth Honoree and Special Event Speaker in 2019.
Wade Gibbs, arthritis warrior with juvenile arthritis, is considered in remission. Wade no longer uses medication and his symptoms are not daily. The long term effects of having juvenile arthritis as a child has impacted Wade’s life and as a past Arthritis Foundation camper, he is ready to give back to others like him.
The Connecticut Children’s Infusion Center, staffed with 6 nurses, and 3 Medical Assistants are dedicated to the care of patients with juvenile arthritis. The newly opened state-of-the-art facility provides IV therapy with biologic medications to improve and maintain a healthy and active lifestyle for pediatric patients in a comfortable and calming environment.
Patients first come to the infusion center in a debilitated state where they are experiencing life-altering pain, swelling, or possible uveitis. The Infusion Center nurses develop a strong therapeutic relationship with their patients and become valued partners in their health and wellbeing.
We are delighted and humbled to be selected as the Medical Honorees for the 2020 Arthritis Walk. We are committed to joining the fight for a cure.
Raeanne, Casey, Melissa, Rachel, Tracie, Sara, Ashley, Andrea, and Chayra
To support or join the Infusion Center team, please visit their fundraising page today!
Aiyana Jenkins was diagnosed with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, followed by juvenile dermatomyositis and raynaud's disease.
Aiyana dreamt for peaceful sleep and pain free days. Rather than feeling insecure, she wants to feel fearless.
Constantly she feels like she is at war with herself; battling a disease that is invisible. Aiyana says “I am my own hero. I am more than a victim of chronic pain; I am an arthritis warrior!”.
View upcoming fundraisers to support Aiyana.
To support Aiyana, please visit her fundraising page today!
Teagan and Owen are siblings who both battle arthritis together.
Owen was age 13 when he was rushed to the Emergency Room after being sick with a high fever and aching pains throughout his knees and ankles for around a week. The doctors ran many tests, blood work and several x-rays and diagnosed Owen with ankylosing spondylitis. Owen sees a rheumatologist for check-ups and takes medicine as needed.
Teagan was 3 years-old when she started to complain about her knees and walking much different than usual. After many tests, doctors diagnosed her with juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Teagan has overcome three procedures, bullying, and pain every day. She advocates for the Arthritis Foundation as a Junior Ambassador and holds an interest in writing a book raising awareness for arthritis.
Both Teagan and Owen face challenges in their day to day life. They both have many hobbies and share similar interests such as music and volleyball. They face obstacles when it comes to enduring long periods of physical activity, but they have adapted their lifestyle to fit their needs. They have hopes to advocate for not only themselves but the thousands of other kids who struggle every day.
To support Teagan and Owen, please visit their team fundraising page today!
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