Skip to main content.

2024 Jingle Bell Run Honorees

 

Edward Silverman, MD
HCA Mercy Hospital Orthopedics
Medical Honoree 


Dr. Silverman was born and raised in Reading, Pennsylvania, he pursued Biology at Pennsylvania State University's Schreyer Honors College, specializing in vertebrate physiology. His medical journey led him to George Washington University for orthopaedics and musculoskeletal health studies. Residency at Jackson Memorial Hospital and the University of Miami honed his skills in orthopaedic trauma, sports, and joint replacement, a passion sparked by its transformative impact on patients' lives. After a fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania in adult reconstruction, he joined Mercy Hospital, specializing in minimally invasive robotic total joint reconstruction since 2016. Outside work, he relishes family time and hobbies like college football, boating, and fishing. Join or support Dr. Silverman and team, Mercy Hospital Orthopedics.

 

Ava Alvarez
Polyarticular Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
Teen Honoree 


In 2021, as COVID-19 was calming down, Ava and her family traveled to Indianapolis for a flag football tournament. They returned home sick. Her parents had flu-like symptoms, but she was asymptomatic—until a week later, when she experienced severe body aches and a heart murmur, leading to a stay in the ICU. After losing 20 pounds, she was diagnosed with polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis (Poly-JIA). She began treatment with methotrexate, enduring 2.5 years of pain management. Despite setbacks, including missing out on the U.S. Junior National Team, she continued training. Now 17 and preparing for college, she’s on Enbrel and remains focused on her journey. Join or support Ava and team, Ava’s JIA Baddies.

 

Emma Newman
Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
Youth Honoree 


Emma is a joyful, creative child who loves dancing and playing hockey. After moving to Miami, she suddenly developed severe pain and stiffness, which was diagnosed as juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) at the age of seven years old. With the support of the wonderful doctors at Nicklaus Children's Hospital, and her younger sister Vivienne, who also has JIA, Emma learned to manage her condition, showing incredible bravery despite weekly shots and daily medications. This July, she enjoyed her first summer at sleepaway camp, and her family is optimistic about her future. They deeply appreciate the Arthritis Foundation's support and encourage donations to help conquer arthritis for good. Join or support Emma and team, Emma's Warriors.