When it comes to arthritis, we tend to think of Grandma trying to get her fingers around her knitting needles or any elderly person struggling with door knobs. But did you know that arthritis, our leading cause of disability, affects 300,000 children?
Around the country, Juvenile Arthritis (JA) camps offer programs to help kids deal with arthritis and related childhood rheumatic diseases. In a safe and secure environment, children and teens learn more about arthritis in general so they gain a better understanding of their own diagnosis and treatment.
Tools include peer-to-peer support and developing new skills and interests to increase independence and self-confidence. The lasting memories they create develop the skills needed for leadership and advocacy. Ultimately, they become more active participants beyond the camp experience.
Arizona has two camps: Camp Cruz in Mayer running from June 6-17; and Camp ILA (Imagine Life without Arthritis) Family Weekend in Prescott from September 21st to the 23rd.
For more information on both camps, you can contact Allie Avishai at aavishai@arthritis.org
Visit the Arthritis.org website for lots and lots of good information!
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