Arthritis Life

What’s it like to be an Adult Living with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis? Rebecca Beesley’s Story

Episode Summary

In Episode 120, Cheryl and Rebecca discuss various aspects of living with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) and the importance of advocacy, awareness, and hope. Rebecca reflects on her experiences as a JIA patient and parent, stressing the significance of not accepting unnecessary pain for children with JIA and advocating for effective treatments and support. She also shares how she started a nonprofit organization to help meet the unmet needs of children and adults living with JIA.

Episode Notes

Cheryl and Rebecca also share misconceptions and talk about the variability and fluctuations of symptoms, as well as reframing limitations and embracing flexibility. They explore the idea of living a "good life" with rheumatic diseases, acknowledging the challenges while emphasizing the possibility of thriving and pursuing one's dreams despite the condition.

Episode at a glance:

• Advocacy and Awareness: Cheryl and Rebecca emphasize the importance of advocating for individuals with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) and raising awareness about the condition to combat misconceptions and promote understanding in various settings.
• What happens when kids with JIA become adults? Rebecca clarifies common misconceptions such as that kids “outgrow” JIA. As an adult living with JIA, she explains how the diagnosis follows you to adulthood because it’s a different disease than adult rheumatoid arthritis.
• Education and Work Accommodations: Cheryl & Rebecca discuss the need for accommodations, highlighting the importance of communication with employers, teachers, and peers.
• Thriving with JIA: The conversation delves into the idea of living a fulfilling life despite the challenges of rheumatic diseases, emphasizing the importance of reframing limitations, embracing flexibility, and celebrating achievements and everyday joys.
• Coping tools: Cheryl and Rebecca discuss the challenges faced by individuals and families dealing with JIA, as well as strategies for navigating life with chronic illness, including seeking support, staying informed, and fostering a positive mindset.
• Favorite mantras: “It’s never too late to be who you might have been”, and it “always seems impossible until it’s done”.

Medical disclaimer: 

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.

Episode Sponsors

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! 

For full episode show notes including a video & transcript

Coming soon on the Arthritis Life Website.