2022 Jingle Bell Run Honorees

 

Eric Haney
Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis
Adult Honoree  


When Eric was 8, he had bouts of really bad pain. Simple tasks like getting out of the car and zipping up a coat become enormous challenges. Months of doctor visits were unable to provide answers and his condition deteriorated.

Then, finally, in the spring of 2008, Eric saw a pediatric rheumatologist at the John's Hopkins Children Center where he was diagnosed with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis and got the treatment he needed.

One of the things Eric learned about living with JRA is that, along with a shot of Enbrel a week, staying active is important. For Eric, that meant putting down his basketball and lacrosse stick and jumping into the pool to swim. Fortunately for Eric, he had his last injection in 2014. Fast forward to 2021, Eric completed a half Ironman.

To join or support Eric, please visit the fundraising page today!

 

TJ Arey
Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
Youth Honoree  


TJ was diagnosed with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) when he was 6.5 years old. One morning he woke up with an extremely swollen ankle and unable to walk. After x-rays and blood tests he was diagnosed with JIA.

TJ is a very bright, active, inquisitive, sweet, and funny boy. He enjoys playing the piano, participating in Cub Scouts, playing sports, going on hikes, and reading about history.

He has been a trooper through all of it from the doctor appointments to blood draws, cortisone shots, and trying various medications to find what works to keep him pain free. The family has been involved with the Jingle Bell Run for several years even before TJ's diagnosis because his dad has ankylosing spondylitis. #TJsArthritisWarriors

To join or support TJ's team, please visit the fundraising page today!