- JA Fact Sheet
- Glossary
- Disease Types
- Diagnosis & Disease Process
- Treatments
- Daily Life
- School Success
- Networking
- Conference
- JA Conference Sponsors
- Hotel Information
- Transportation and Travel Information
- Registration and Agenda
- Advocacy
- Research
- Transition to Adulthood
- Resources
- For Health Care Providers
- About Us
- Spotlight on Juvenile Arthritis
National Juvenile Arthritis Conference
July 10-13, 2008 -- Costa Mesa, California
The National Juvenile Arthritis Conference is a way to make valuable educational presentations and activities available to families. Studies have demonstrated that family retreats improve children’s emotional functioning and decrease strain on the family.
Other benefits that can be gained by attending one of these conferences include:
- Increased communication among parents, teachers, and school administrators
- Increased peer and social support
- Increased access to a wide variety of health professionals and the latest medical information
- Development of advocacy skills
These conferences can empower people who are challenged with a chronic disease to initiate healthy actions and behaviors as well as develop attitudes that can promote positive change. More importantly, many people form lifelong friendships which, in turn, decrease feelings of isolation and provide emotional support.
What’s New and Exciting in 2008!
Some aspects of the 2008 JA National Conference may look a bit different than in past years. Here’s what’s new:
- Conference Orientation Session – occurring Thursday, July 10 from 4:00-5:00 p.m. At this session you can learn more about conference logistics. This session is great for first time conference attendees, but everyone is welcome!
- Hang out with old friends and meet new friends at our opening night beach party, Thursday 5:00-7:00 pm, with dinner and entertainment California style. Wear your favorite Hawaiian shirt and join in the fun!
Conference Location - Costa Mesa, California - Hilton Orange County
The hotel is centrally located to all major points of interest in Orange County and Southern California. The Hilton Orange County / Costa Mesa hotel provides complimentary shuttle service to and from Orange County / John Wayne Airport as well to surrounding California attractions including South Coast Plaza Shopping Resort and the Orange County Performing Arts Center. From Disneyland to Newport Beach, the hotel is conveniently located in the heart of the "OC."
Special Thanks to National Presenting Sponsors - Amgen Inc./Wyeth Pharmaceuticals
Scholarships
Special thanks to Abbott for donating scholarships to help offset travel and lodging expenses for 50 families attending the 2008 JA Conference. Local Arthritis Foundation chapters identified families from across the country that could benefit from this opportunity and the generosity of Abbott.
