Please. Take just five minutes out of your day to read about this SUPERBLY inspirational mom from Australia whose son has juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA).
Yes, I’m begging but it’s totally worth the investment because she’s one JIA mom who is well on her way to figuring out the power of connecting with others!
And… if you’re reading this, you’re probably in need of inspiration!
So, you’ve come to the right place.
Living in Australia, this mom was worried sick when her son became ill with anemia and developed an allergy or intolerance to cow’s milk. Doctors scratched their heads but couldn’t come up with even an idea of what was going on until the boy was 13 months old. That’s when his ankle began swelling at an alarming rate—right before his mother’s eyes as she held him.
Apparently, it wasn’t until the child was 19 months old before he received a proper diagnosis of JIA.
Mom’s Takeaways:
- JIA is not hereditary—but it affects EVERYONE in the family—some family members may actually go through a grieving process, which is not uncommon
- Every child’s JIA affects them differently
- Joint pain, stiffness, and swelling are common features, although less common symptoms can occur. Physical therapy can help to strengthen muscles
- It’s imperative for parents to educate themselves about JIA and find a specialist who can treat their child based on how the disease is affecting them
- Finding support through the Arthritis Foundation (local chapter) can be a source of tremendous help
What really impressed me is despite the fact that her son faces many health challenges in his life because of this progressive disease of unknown origin, this mom is one whippersnapper!
She refuses to sit around and worry.
She is out there, blogging, inspiring other parents to fight back to try and realize that EACH family has the right to happiness, and to make the most of each day.
You can read her blog here!
I bow down to you!
