Kaylee G.
It all started in 2007, when I was 9. I started having issues with my legs in soccer. Then, I started having trouble writing. So, finally we went to see the rheumatologist. He diagnosed me with JRA. He said I had it in my shoulders, elbows, wrists, all fingers, hips, knees, ankles and finally all of my toes. I was shocked. No child wants to be told they have a disease and can’t do all the things normal kids would do. Although, I was kind of excited. It was a chance to learn all about a new disease. I got loaded up on all these different medications. It was crazy. At school I was embarrassed. I had to use a wedge whenever I wrote. All the kids thought it wasn’t fair I didn’t have to do push-ups or pull-ups in gym. It’s easier now that I am older. I can do more and more. I am really grateful for getting to the doctor when I did. Since, I’ve gotten closer and closer to living a normal life. Thankfully, with what I do still have to do, I have a very loving family and great friends who support me.
