Abby
Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
Youth Honoree
 Abby was diagnosed with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) at the age of 7. Abby’s journey started when she had swelling in her left knee. While diagnosing JIA can take time, Abby’s diagnosis was quick. Her younger sister, Laila, was diagnosed with JIA at the age of 3, two years prior. Within a few weeks, Abby had a steroid injection in her knee and started taking Methotrexate. Through the years, Abby has tried multiple biologic medications to provide relief. Today, Abby has transitioned to monthly infusions of Remicade.
Abby has been a competitive dancer for the last 12 years. On stage she is full of joy and excitement, doing what she loves, however no one sees her invisible disease, attacking her joints, causing pain and swelling throughout her body. With continued advances in medical research, Abby will be able to live a normal, active lifestyle.
In the coming years, Abby plans to continue dancing and pursue a career in the medical field. Her strength and determination will continue to guide her through whatever challenges she may face. |
Ron was diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis in 2022 after over a year of misdiagnosed skin and joint conditions. Shortly after receiving his initial COVID-19 vaccine, he noticed mild dermatitis symptoms. Joint swelling and discomfort began after that, affecting his hands, hips, feet, and ankles. For over a year, NSAIDS or topicals could not effectively treat the chronic pain he endured. Simple tasks like gripping objects and walking and climbing stairs were becoming more difficult. When he was finally correctly diagnosed, aggressive treatments were pursued to produce progressive results. Today, Ron is on biologics, methotrexate, and high-dose vitamin therapy, which has reduced pain & swelling and increased energy throughout the day.