In this heartwarming episode, Cheryl sits down with Peighton (age 12), Mackenzie (age 11), and Atalie (age 7) to hear what it's really like growing up with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA, sometimes called “JA”). They share their diagnosis journeys, the challenges of treatments and school, and the everyday ways they cope while continuing to be resilient kids.
Along the way, they talk about the comfort of pets, the importance of finding friends who truly understand, why kids with invisible illnesses deserve to be believed, and the hope they've found through the Arthritis Foundation community. Whether you're raising a child with JIA, living with arthritis yourself, or simply want to better understand what these young patients experience, this conversation is a powerful reminder that no one has to face arthritis alone.
All content found on Arthritis Life public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Rheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. See all the details and join the program or waitlist now!