Living with Osteonecrosis: A Journey through the Arthritis Umbrella

As November 29 approaches, I find myself reflecting on my personal journey with Osteonecrosis, a condition that stemmed from a medial meniscus tear, osteoarthritis in my hands, and back spondylolisthesis in my L5 S1. Osteonecrosis is the condition that has had a profound impact on my life, and it’s a day that deserves recognition and awareness. In this blog post, I’d like to explore the reasons why Osteonecrosis should be recognized under the Arthritis umbrella and provide information on how we can make this happen.

Living with Osteonecrosis

Before we dive into the importance of Osteonecrosis being a part of the Arthritis umbrella, let me share a bit about my journey. Osteonecrosis, also known as avascular necrosis, is a condition that an area of bone or joint such as hip knee jaw talus shoulder etc….is deprived of blood supply, leading to bone cell death

In my case it was my knee that was deprived of blood supply, leading to bone cell death. It all began with a medial meniscus tear, which set the stage for this painful condition. To add to the challenge, I also battle osteoarthritis in my hands and knees and the discomfort of spondylolisthesis in my L5 S1. Every day is a testament to strength and resilience, but I am determined to make a difference.

Why Osteonecrosis Should be under the Arthritis Umbrella

1. Shared Symptoms and Impact: Osteonecrosis shares many common symptoms with various forms of arthritis, such as joint pain, inflammation, and limited mobility. By categorizing it under the Arthritis umbrella, we can ensure that individuals living with Osteonecrosis receive the support and resources they need.
2. Similar Therapeutic Approaches: The treatment and management of Osteonecrosis often overlap with arthritis, including medication, physical therapy, and surgical interventions. Bringing Osteonecrosis under the Arthritis umbrella allows for more unified research and development of treatments.
3. Community and Awareness: Arthritis foundations have a well-established community and awareness initiatives. By aligning Osteonecrosis with these organizations, we can tap into their resources, support networks, and outreach efforts, helping to increase public awareness about this condition.
4. Advocacy and Funding: Arthritis organizations have experience in advocating for research funding and legislative support. By being a part of this larger movement, Osteonecrosis can benefit from the collective efforts to secure funding for research and improved patient care.
5. Stronger Voice: A united front is always more powerful. With Osteonecrosis as a recognized part of the Arthritis umbrella, we can speak with a louder, more influential voice, driving policy changes, awareness campaigns, and better care for all affected individuals.

How to Advocate for Osteonecrosis Awareness Day

It’s essential to bring attention to Osteonecrosis and advocate for its recognition on November 29 as Osteonecrosis Awareness Day. Here are steps to get started:

1. Contact Your Representatives: Reach out to your local congressmen and senators. Explain your personal story and the importance of recognizing November 29 as Osteonecrosis Awareness Day. Ask for their support in promoting this cause.
2. Connect with Advocacy Groups: Collaborate with arthritis and rare disease advocacy groups. They have experience in advocating for recognition days and can provide guidance and resources to support your cause.
3. Petition and Raise Awareness: Create a petition to gather support from the community. Utilize social media, online platforms, and local events to raise awareness about Osteonecrosis and the significance of November 29.
4. Leverage the Osteonecrosis Foundation: Work closely with the Osteonecrosis Foundation, which is already dedicated to raising awareness about the condition. Their expertise and resources can be invaluable in your advocacy efforts.
5. Seek Proclamations: Continue your work in securing proclamations from other states. Highlight the importance of November 29 as Osteonecrosis Awareness Day and the impact it can have on patients’ lives.

Living with Osteonecrosis is a daily challenge, but by coming together and advocating for its recognition under the Arthritis umbrella, we can improve the lives of countless individuals like me. Let’s ensure that November 29 becomes a day of awareness, support, and hope for all those affected by this condition.