Lizzy
Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
Youth Honoree
 Lizzy began experiencing symptoms long before she received her diagnosis. Often, she couldn’t walk, put on shoes, or continue with dance or guitar classes. The pain and exhaustion were excruciating, and she would fall asleep every day in school.
After multiple tests, bloodwork and waiting months to see rheumatology, Lizzy was diagnosed with juvenile idiopathic arthritis. The diagnosis was actually a relief for the family, and she soon started on medications. Lizzy has now had weekly injections and physical therapy for nearly six years. She found a new passion in horseback riding, even attending the World Championships! She still has tough days, but most days she’s able to forget she has arthritis. Her family participates in the Jingle Bell Run to raise awareness and to help fund research and fellowships. To support Lizzy, please visit her fundraising page today! |
Zane began his battle in fall of 2012. He had little energy, was in pain all the time and his fingers/toes were swollen. Zane saw a dermatologist who said he had the worst case of psoriatic arthritis they had ever seen and after a six month wait, he was officially diagnosed by a rheumatologist. Zane has had multiple medications, shots, infusions, and testing over 10 years with multiple failed treatment options. He loved sports, but the pain made it impossible. In 2018 he discovered wheelchair basketball and tennis, and now has two wheelchair basketball championships and multiple wheelchair tennis awards.