Hey there, I’m Debbie, and I navigate each day with the weight of osteoarthritis in my hands, spine, and knees, coupled with an osteonecrosis diagnosis in my right knee since 2014. While pain is not a stranger to me, I choose to direct my strength towards supporting the Arthritis Foundation.
For me, it’s more than a personal battle; it’s about standing beside children like Sophie, Conner and countless others dealing with arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, lupus, fibromyalgia, or osteonecrosis. Let’s come together to make a difference. Join me in bringing hope to those facing the challenges of arthritis. #ArthritisAwareness #StrengthInUnity
As the festive season approaches, so does an opportunity to make a positive impact in the lives of those battling arthritis. The Orlando Jingle Bell Run, scheduled for December 9, 2023, is not just a merry event but a powerful initiative by the Arthritis Foundation to raise funds for a cause that affects individuals across all walks of life.
1. **Arthritis: A Non-Discriminating Foe:**
Arthritis doesn’t discriminate; it can affect anyone – a child, a middle-aged American, or an elderly person. With over 100 different types, arthritis is an umbrella term representing inflammation of the joints. Many of us, like Sophia, know someone personally facing the challenges of arthritis.
2. **Donate to Make a Difference:**
In the spirit of giving this holiday season, consider donating five or ten dollars to support finding a cure for arthritis. No amount is too small, and every contribution brings us one step closer to alleviating the pain and struggles faced by those living with arthritis.
3. **The Jingle Bell Run: Arthritis Foundation’s Main Fundraiser:**
The Orlando Jingle Bell Run stands as the Arthritis Foundation’s flagship fundraising event. Your generous donations play a pivotal role in funding research, advocacy, and support programs for individuals affected by arthritis.
4. **Sophia’s Story:**
Sophia’s connection to arthritis emphasizes the personal impact of this condition. Her story resonates with many, illustrating the importance of coming together to support those who need it most.
5. **Your Invitation to Donate:**
Your generosity can make a significant difference. Please take a moment to contribute to my fundraiser; the link is below. Your support, whether big or small, is immensely appreciated.
Donate To Deb Andio – Fundraising For 2023 Jingle Bell Run – Orlando, FL
As we gather in Baldwin Park on December 9, 2023, for the Jingle Bell Run, let’s not only revel in the festive atmosphere but also unite for a cause that transcends the holiday spirit. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of those grappling with arthritis. Your donation, no matter the amount, is a gift of hope, bringing us closer to a future where arthritis no longer holds sway. Thank you for your generosity, and may you have a blessed day. I look forward to seeing you at the Jingle Bell Run!
Read Sophia’s Story
After years of struggling, Sophia was diagnosed with an incurable autoimmune disease at the age of 5. Between chemo drugs and biologics, she’s a Juvenile Arthritis Warrior fighting for a cure.
Sophia is 8 years old and is living with juvenile arthritis (JA). JA attacks the muscles and joints in her body, and currently, there is no cure. For Sophia, that means treatments consist of low dose chemo drugs and biologics given by either injections or infusions. Sophia’s doctors hope these drugs suppress her immune system enough that it will stop attacking and causing irreversible damage to her joints. Without a cure, Sophia will be taking these drugs for many years.
Today, Sophia gets two injections each week at home. Sophia even assembles and mixes the medicine for her injections. Her mom does the actual needle prick, but Sophia is proud that she can push the medicine in and pull the needle out by herself.
Not only does Sophia receive injections, but she is also on another immune suppressant called a disease-modifying drug, or DMARD, which she takes twice a day. The combinations of medications are important to keep Sophia healthy and her JA in a manageable state, but she also has to have her blood drawn often to check how the medicine is affecting her body.
Without these powerful prescriptions, Sophia would be in pain every day. She wouldn’t be able to run, jump or keep up with her friends. She wouldn’t be able to be on the cheer team that she loves, and she would have to keep using crutches or a wheelchair daily. Her treatment plan makes being a normal 8-year-old possible, but her dream is to find a cure.
Joint Purpose 
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