Frances Black

Volunteer Spotlight

If you are looking for an example of how to “live well” with arthritis, look no further than Frances Black. Frances has been involved with the Arthritis Foundation Aquatic Exercise program at the Clay Platte YMCA in Kansas City, Missouri since it was first instituted there in 1987.

In 2007, she was recognized by the YMCA for her 30 years of outstanding service. Although Frances believes that she does not have to deal with as much pain from her arthritis as others do, she also believes that part of why she is able to function so well is because of her commitment to water exercise. She said, “I believe the activity improves the quality of our lives”. Frances expressed that it is not only the exercise itself, but the camaraderie among the group, that has

made her involvement so rewarding. She has seen many friendships form

because of the classes and she feels that working with these people—and watching them learn to combat their problems—helps her to reduce the impact of her own struggles with arthritis.

But leading exercise classes isn’t the only way Frances improves the lives of people with arthritis—she has also become involved in the foundation’s advocacy efforts and will attend the 2008 Arthritis Foundation Advocacy Summit in Washington, D.C., and work to secure support for the Arthritis Prevention Control and Cure Act. When asked if she was looking forward to this opportunity, Frances said this would be her chance to “be there” and that she was hopeful that this year would be “the year the bill will be passed!” She also mentioned that, although there are catalogs full of assistive devices and tools we can use to help us in our daily lives—those tools and devices cost money.

The advocacy summit provides an opportunity for our legislators to provide support to us—for free! Frances’ passion for the cause is contagious and we are so honored to be sending her to represent our chapter area.

Western Missouri/Greater Kansas City Chapter

Frances Black

Volunteer Spotlight