Maddie's Story

At just 16 months old, Maddie was diagnosed with polyarticular juvenile arthritis (JA). The following year, Maddie and her family formed Team Moo and joined their first Walk to Cure Arthritis. They will celebrate their 10th walk this year. 

Now 9, Maddie has faced challenges with her JA over the years. She has used her experience to learn how to take care of herself and advocate for what she needs. Though some days are tougher than others, she approaches each challenge thoughtfully and with determination, and she has not allowed JA to keep her from pursuing anything she loves.  

Although she is not fond of weekly shots, frequent blood tests and other medications and side effects, she never fails to recognize that compared to what some kids are going through, it doesn’t seem too bad. Like so many children living with JA, Maddie maintains a mature, positive attitude and displays a strong sense of empathy for others. 

The Arthritis Foundation has been important for Maddie since just after diagnosis, providing her with the opportunity to meet others facing similar challenges. Through the JA Conference, Maddie met her friends Sophie and Lexi, who both have JA. Although they live in other parts of the country, they keep in touch between conferences, as they are uniquely able to relate to each other and what they are experiencing. 

Being part of the Walk to Cure Arthritis is special to Maddie, as it allows her to meet other kids with JA and have her family and friends around her as a part of Team Moo. Being together with so many people, all walking to support her and others living with arthritis, means so much to her.