Registration Opens for 2026 Juvenile Arthritis Family Summit — the Nation’s Largest Gathering of the JA Community  

ATLANTA — February 5, 2026 — Chronic illnesses like juvenile arthritis (JA) affect hundreds of thousands of children in the United States, disrupting daily life, school, friendships and mental well-being. To address these challenges and uplift families navigating pediatric rheumatic diseases, the Arthritis Foundation will host the 2026 JA Family Summit, the largest gathering in the U.S. for children with arthritis and other rheumatic diseases and the families who support them. The Summit will occur July 16-19 in Indianapolis. Registration is open through June 1, 2026.  

Juvenile arthritis and related conditions are often invisible, yet their impact on young people is profound. Children may experience chronic pain, fatigue, mobility limitations and frequent medical appointments during critical stages of physical, emotional and social development. For many families, the journey can feel isolating — especially given the persistent, old-fashioned myth that arthritis only affects older adults. 

The JA Family Summit exists to change that narrative. 

Each year, the Summit brings together hundreds of children, teens, parents, caregivers, health care professionals and arthritis advocates from across the country to create a powerful space for connection, education and empowerment. The 2026 event will feature age-appropriate programming for kids and teens living with arthritis and other rheumatic diseases, alongside educational sessions and support resources for parents and siblings. 

“Children with chronic illnesses like juvenile arthritis deserve to be seen, heard and supported,” says Andrea Ring, senior director of juvenile arthritis and young adult initiatives. “Through experiences like the JA Family Summit and the Panda Clinic, families are reminded that they are not alone — and kids discover a community that truly understands them.” 

A cornerstone of the Summit experience is the Panda Clinic, featuring stuffed animals donated by longtime Arthritis Foundation partner, Alpha Omicron Pi (AOII) Fraternity. In this hands-on, interactive Arthritis Foundation experience, children are gifted their very own AOII panda bear — who quickly becomes their “patient.” Guided by health care professionals, kids step into the role of doctor as they learn how to perform gentle check-ups, give pretend shots and explore different treatment tools. Through play and encouragement, the Panda Clinic helps kids build confidence, reduce medical anxiety and feel empowered in their own health journeys. 

“The sisters of Alpha Omicron Pi are deeply committed to the Arthritis Foundation mission because it reflects who we are at our core: women dedicated to service, leadership and lifelong impact,” says Susan Bonifield, International President, Alpha Omicron Pi Fraternity. “Supporting the Juvenile Arthritis Family Summit allows AOII to stand alongside children and families facing arthritis, offering hope and connection when they matter most. We are proud to champion a cause that empowers families and helps young people live stronger, fuller lives.” 

At the Summit, families gain access to: 

• Evidence-based education on managing juvenile arthritis and other rheumatic diseases 
• Opportunities to connect with pediatric rheumatology experts and researchers 
• Peer support that helps reduce isolation and build lifelong friendships 
• Activities that empower kids and teens to advocate for themselves and their health. 

As the largest event of its kind in the U.S., the JA Family Summit plays a critical role in raising awareness about the realities of pediatric rheumatic diseases while advancing a future of better care, stronger support systems and improved quality of life for affected youth. 

The 2026 JA Family Summit reinforces a powerful message: Kids with arthritis are not alone — and together, families, partners and supporters can turn shared challenges into collective strength. 

For more information about Arthritis Foundation Juvenile Arthritis and Young Adult programs, visit arthritis.org/juvenile-arthritis.