Theme: “Empowering the Future.”
Juvenile Arthritis Awareness Month is a significant annual event observed throughout the month of July, this occasion seeks to educate, support, and advocate for those affected by this chronic condition dedicated to raising awareness about juvenile arthritis and its impact on the lives of children and adolescents. Founded by the Arthritis Foundation, this campaign aims to raise awareness about this condition and share resources to help those affected by it. Did you know, with kids, arthritis affects not just joints, but other organs too? Their immune system attacks their joints, causing swelling, stiffness, and sometimes permanent damage, which can get worse if left untreated.
The theme for Juvenile Arthritis Awareness Month 2023 is “Empowering the Future.” This theme emphasizes the importance of providing children and adolescents living with arthritis the resources, tools, and support they need to lead fulfilling lives. It encourages individuals and communities to come together and empower young arthritis warriors to face their challenges with strength and resilience.
WHY DO WE CELEBRATE JUVENILE ARTHRITIS AWARENESS MONTH?
Juvenile arthritis is an often misunderstood condition that affects thousands of children worldwide. By dedicating an entire month to raising awareness, we can help debunk misconceptions, increase understanding, and provide support to those living with juvenile arthritis and their families. By spreading knowledge, we can foster a more inclusive society that supports and uplifts children and adolescents with arthritis.
HOW TO CELEBRATE JUVENILE ARTHRITIS AWARENESS MONTH
- Read (and learn) about juvenile arthritis: Learn more about juvenile arthritis, the types of arthritis that affect children, what are the common treatments available, and what you can do to support this cause and this month. You can get more information on the Arthritis Foundation website, which provides resources for parents, kids, and teens to manage medication, activity, and eating habits.
- Share information: Utilize social media platforms, blogs, or community forums to raise awareness about juvenile arthritis. The key to a successful cause is awareness. Go online with your story and share what you have learned about Juvenile Arthritis Awareness Month. Encourage others to observe this month, too. If you don’t prefer social media for sharing your thoughts, make sure at least one other person knows about juvenile arthritis.
- Organize fundraising events: Arrange local events, such as walks, runs, or charity auctions, to raise funds for research, treatment, and support services for children with arthritis. Encourage participation from your community and collaborate with local organizations.
- Volunteer or donate: Consider volunteering your time at local hospitals, clinics, or organizations that support children with arthritis. If possible, donate to reputable organizations dedicated to juvenile arthritis research and support.
- Connect with local support groups: Reach out to local support groups for children and families affected by juvenile arthritis. Attend their meetings, share experiences, and offer support to those who may be struggling.
- Advocate for change: Write to your local representatives, urging them to prioritize funding for juvenile arthritis research, support services, and accessible healthcare. Raise your voice for policies that benefit children and adolescents with arthritis.
FACTS ABOUT JUVENILE ARTHRITIS
- Types of arthritis for different age groups. Certain types of arthritis rarely affect adults and only occur in children — the reverse is also true.
- It is a chronic condition. Juvenile arthritis can last for months, years, or a lifetime.
- Treatment can have good results. Juvenile arthritis can be controlled by medications, among other treatments, and children can go into remission, which can last for months, years, or even a lifetime.
- Genes might determine risk. The siblings and first cousins of children with this illness are at an increased risk of developing juvenile arthritis, as studies done at the University of Utah indicated.
- Arthritis (juvenile and adult) commands funds.
The more we learn about this disease, the bigger the impact we can create. Knowing that such an illness is possible, reading about it, and sharing this knowledge with our community can go a long way. Plus, since juvenile arthritis often goes undiagnosed or is misdiagnosed, understanding this disease means there is a lower chance of mistaking the symptoms for something else in case someone we know is affected by it.
YOUR HEALTH PHARMACY
Making your health our priority.