Juvenile Arthritis
The Arthritis Foundation values families who face the challenges of arthritis and related diseases. Below you can learn about the many opportunities available in your area through the Juvenile Arthritis (JA) Program.
Visit www.KidsGetArthritisToo.org, it is designed for children to learn about symptoms, treatments, doctor visits, growing up with JA and more!
Welcome Care Packages
There are many questions and concerns when a child is diagnosed with a rheumatic disease. The welcome care packages ensure that many of these questions are answered and resources are offered. This package includes education about juvenile arthritis, medical resources, newsletters, information for teachers and school nurses and information about our juvenile programs and services. To receive a package, contact Karen Sawicki at 414-321-3933 ext 208.
kidZone - Juvenile Arthritis Local e-newsletter
kidZone is the Upper Midwest Region’s bi-monthly e-mail newsletter. This newsletter contains exciting information about juvenile arthritis, research updates, Camp M.A.S.H., juvenile arthritis conferences, JAFN meetings, and the latest juvenile arthritis news.
Read the latest kidZone:
November 2012
March 2013
Juvenile Arthritis Family Network (JAFN)
JAFN is a monthly networking meeting for families who have a child living with juvenile arthritis. North Dakota currently does not have a JAFN program in place. If you are interested in starting one, please contact Liz Atchison for details.
Camp M.A.S.H. (Make Arthritis Stop Hurting)
Camp M.A.S.H. is a six-day residential summer camp for children ages 9-17 who have some form of juvenile arthritis or related condition. Experienced professional and recreational staff work together to develop the camp program. Emphasis is placed on opportunities for involvement in activities the camper may not otherwise experience. The camp is held at Camp Wawbeek in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin. Camp M.A.S.H. is being held August 3 – 8, 2013.
For more information regarding Camp M.A.S.H., please contact Karen Sawicki at 414-321-3933 ext 208.
Juvenile Arthritis National Conference
Registration is now open for the 2013 Juvenile Arthritis Conference July 18-21 in Anaheim, CA. The JA Conference is the Arthritis Foundation’s signature, nationwide event for families affected by juvenile arthritis. Join us for a four-day education event that focuses on health, wellness and fun for children (kids with arthritis and siblings). Learn more about the conference here.
The Upper Midwest Region offers scholarships based on financial need. Download the form here. Scholarship funds are limited and are given based on need. All forms are due by Friday, April 12. Questions please contact Liz Atchison at 651-229-5371.
Advocacy for Children and Families
The Upper Midwest Region is constantly advocating for children with juvenile arthritis and other rheumatic diseases. Politicians, school nurses, teachers, health professionals and many other people are unaware that kids get arthritis too and that it is a major health concern. Advocacy allows for public education, understanding and changes in service as needed. Become an E-Advocate and join the movement here.
Questions about Juvenile Arthritis or our programs?
Contact Liz Atchison at 651-229-5371.
