An Intro & A Plea: Don’t Let Our Kids Down! Make sure children with JRA have funding for their future – Ashley Boynes, Community Development Director, WPA Chapter

Hello, my name is Ashley Boynes. I am a new staff member at the Western Pennsylvania Chapter of the Arthritis Foundation and am thrilled to be on board! It is more than a job to me, as this is also something that I am passionate about. I am 25 and have suffered from invisible autoimmune problems my whole life. I live with both Rheumatoid Arthritis and Celiac Disease, and have dealt with a realm of other issues, as well.

 I was diagnosed with RA when I was 11 years old, but have made certain not to ever let my illness define me. Before being a “patient”, I was always a child. Unfortunately, at the time, I didn’t know much about the illness, let alone support groups, awareness sessions, exercise classes, or new research being done for patients like myself. Luckily, there are now many resources for children who are diagnosed with Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis so that they can get the support that they need.  The Arthritis Foundation provides a monumental amount of information for the newly diagnosed arthritis sufferer – whether child or adult. We are able to provide information, contribute to research, promote movement, and create awareness – and there are many programs in place (and many more to come) for those suffering the juvenile form of RA.

 However, we may not always be so lucky. With a struggling economy and budgets being cut everywhere you turn, it is frightening to think that people with arthritis and other disabilities or chronic illness may not be able to have access to the programs and assistance that they so require.

 It is important to advocate for the cause, especially concerning our children. If it takes writing, calling, or emailing a senator or state representative to get the word out, then take charge! We can all do our part to help. Do not let anyone cut off or diminish funding for the Arthritis Foundation – especially when it comes to our kids.  

 I can tell you from firsthand experience that it is hard dealing with a chronic illness as a young person. It’s hard enough being a child or young adult in the world today; having to worry about sickness or disability shouldn’t be an added stressor. The Arthritis Foundation provides support, events, and information for children and adults who deal with arthritis and related issues.

 I personally think that the more people we have voicing their concerns, the better. Do not let funding be cut for the wonderful programs and opportunities that the Arthritis Foundation continually provides, particularly for those suffering from JRA. Children really are our future and we need to take care of them now, in whatever ways possible, whether it is encouraging government funding for research, or providing a safe haven or a shoulder to cry on when their condition gets them down. Let’s move together – arthritis is a personal struggle but no one should have to go at it alone.

 I’m happy to be on board at the Western PA Chapter of the Arthritis Foundation, and I hope to be able to encourage positive dialogue about arthritis and similar illnesses. I hope to be able to promote advocacy, inspire awareness, and share personal victories and struggles with our online community.

Thanks for reading, and nice to “meet” you all.

 

- Ashley Boynes

Community Development Director

Western Pennsylvania Chapter

Explore posts in the same categories: Arthritis Advocacy, Arthritis Awareness, Arthritis Stories, JRA, Juvenile Arthritis, Uncategorized

Tags: advocacy, arthritis, Arthritis Foundation, Ashley Boynes, autoimmune disease, funding, JRA, juvenile rheumtaoid arthritis, RA, Western PA, WPA

You can comment below, or link to this permanent URL from your own site.