Cristiana Ioana Stanescu, MD
Rheumatology Associates
Medical Honoree

Dr. Stanescu graduated from Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy in 1989. She completed her internal medical residency at Danbury Hospital/Yale University. and her rheumatology fellowship at University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. Dr. Stanescu provided internal medicine care for 6 years, and has been practicing rheumatology for 17 years. She is certified in rheumatology by the American Board of Internal Medicine and is a member of the medical staff at Hartford Hospital. Dr. Stanescu specializes in diagnosis and treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, gout, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, Sjogren’s disease, lupus, scleroderma, myositis and vasculitis. She has 2 children and enjoys hiking, skiing, and traveling.

To join or support Dr. Stanescu and her team, Rheumatology Associates - Joint Effort, please visit their team fundraising page.

Janet Tourigny
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Adult Honoree

Janet Tourigny, wife, mother, grandmother, and professional Chef, was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) over 20 years ago. When she was first diagnosed, her symptoms were mild. At that time she began a Holistic approach to treating her RA including: diet changes, supplements, acupuncture and yoga. For several years this approach helped to minimize the negative effects of the RA. But in 2001, the RA progressed with a vengeance, making it difficult to simply get out of bed in the morning. After several years of trying different medications and therapies, Janet began infusion therapy, along with other medications and continues to try to find the best treatment.

To join or support Janet and her team, The Joint Force please visit her personal fundraising page.

Maddison Medeiros
Polyarticular Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
Child Honoree

Maddison is one of 4 children in the Medeiros household, living with 3 brothers, she has a lot to keep up with.

It was at 2 years old, Maddison was diagnosed with polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis (PJIA). She has swelling in most of her fingers, both wrist, both elbows, and both knees. Little Maddison has been shied away from physical engagements prior to her diagnosis and we never knew why. She never complained her body hurt or showed pain in any way.

Maddison, now 4 years old, is the most incredible warrior. She will begin injections in the upcoming weeks and we know she will be back on the road to remission. She keeps right up with the rest of the boys. Nothing can stop her!

To join or support Maddison and her team, Maddy's Little Monkeys please visit the team fundraising page.