

Join the Mid-Atlantic Chapters of the Arthritis Foundation for the fifth annual JA Weekend, Friday, January 30 - Sunday, February 1, 2009 at Great Wolf Lodge, Wiliamsburg, VA. This weekend is for families with children living with juvenile arthritis and other juvenile rheumatic diseases. The weekend includes informational sessions for parents to learn from other parents and receive the support they need, as well as to advocate for their child. Listen to rheumatologists, educational consultants and other healthcare professionals about the latest treatment options and resources. Our kids love this time together as they create memories, make new friends and enjoy the Great Wolf Lodge. If you would like to join us, please register now.
The 2008 Conference in Costa Mesa, California was a big success and the Southern California Chapter should be congratulated. Special thanks go out to the Volunteer Co-Chairs, Colleen Ryan and Allison Anderson and their fantastic committee and volunteers for the great job they did! Information and education were plentiful, as were networking opportunities. We also increased our international flavor with a large contingent of families from New Zealand this year!
Save the date now for the JA Conference in Houston next year, July 9-12, 2009.

From the editors of the newsletter Kids Get Arthritis Too is a brand-new edition of Raising A Child With Arthritis. Cutting through the medical textbook jargon, this book covers how to understand disease types, treatment and research, financial concerns, school challenges and more. Personal stories sharing personal triumph and tips for success are peppered throughout. The appendix includes helpful worksheets, charts and a list of additional resources. Order in the Arthritis Foundation online store or by calling 800-283-7800.