It is not just older people who are affected by arthritis, children get it too — that’s why observing Juvenile Arthritis Awareness Month in July each year is so important. 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.
July is JA Awareness Month:
Meet NASCAR’s Natalie Decker She has lived with Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis (JRA) all of her life and yet in spite of pain she inspires others as she battles arthritis on and off the racetrack.
This amazing 25 year-old racing queen battles rheumatoid arthritis that began as juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) at birth.
Her active life on and off the racetrack has been accompanied with painful arthritis: as a child, she had difficulty fully straightening her arms and faced challenges to find the right medication, that could help ease her pain .
Today, her pain and the stiffness she feels as an adult are exponentially worse than when she was younger – and she’s committed to sharing her story to inspire others.
#WeLiveYes
Natalie does this for the kids, She wants to normalize that it’s okay to talk about their pain and arthritis and the challenges they face.
Having arthritis can be incredibly isolating no matter if you are an adult or child.
She says if she can help just one more person feel more supported and inspired, I’ve done my job.”
Natalie Decker is a great role model for young people.
Wishing her all the best in 2022 race season
#advocateforarthritis #nascar #nerd #girlpower #needforspeed #JRA #arthritis #shareyourstory
References
More info on Natalie Decker https://nataliedeckerinc.com/about-us/
Sponsors – https://nataliedeckerinc.com/sponsors/
Photo Credit speedway digest – link https://speedwaydigest.com/index.php/news/xfinity-series-news/68874-natalie-decker-to-race-nascar-xfinity-talladega-press-release/amp
Joint Purpose 