The Arthritis Foundation in West Virginia has done something very special...it has introduced me to so many individuals, young and old, who are faced with this unacceptable disease. This year, I am SO honored to be named one of the 2013 Jingle Bell Run Honorees as the Adult Honoree. I get to share this incredible experience with the 2013 Teen Honoree, Michael Facemire and the Pre-School Honoree, Brayden Elmore.
Today, I'm going to tell you about these two incredible guys who I am so proud to call my friends now.
Michael has an unusual type of arthritis that attacks his lungs and his heart...not typical joints you think of when you think about arthritis. While he was seeking a diagnosis, he missed a full semester of his Junior Year of High School and had to go out of the state before he was finally diagnosed.
During his senior year, he played lacrosse and soccer and represented his high school at the We The People Competition. He graduated 8th in his class and is now off to WVU Tech to study Computer Engineering.
I want to specifically talk about Michael because when I met him, I never would have known the challenges he is faced with daily. He is such a sweet, outgoing and incredible guy and he is truly passionate about raising awareness about arthritis to help others. What a special person! I'm so thankful to have him as a part of my life and I can't wait to share this great experience as Honorees at the Jingle Bell Run together.
You can learn more about Michael's story on his Honoree Page.
Next, my sweet and handsome new friend, Brayden. This little guy is one of the cutest and sweetest kids you'll ever meet...and clearly, he's one of the toughest, too.
Brayden was diagnosed with arthritis when he was only two years old. He, too, had to go out of the state for care because West Virginia does not have a Pediatric Rheumatologist. He still has to travel to Cincinnati about every four months with his mom and dad and his two siblings for care.
A child with arthritis is a learning curve for everyone in the family. Parents are scared because their child is in pain, siblings don't understand why their little brother is in pain and others don't see that the pain for little Brayden is so unbearable, it literally stopped him from walking at one point in his life.
Brayden isn't the only one in this family who has inspired me. His Mom, Jenna, has been at tons of events with him and just talking with her and learning her story is so amazing. Brayden is lucky to be a part of a family with parents who knew to take him to the doctor when they noticed something wasn't quite right and who continue to take him for care to make sure he feels the best that he can.
You can see Brayden's full story on his Honoree page!
This year is bringing so many wonderful opportunities my way and this is just the icing on the cake for me. Meeting new people, learning their stories and becoming a part of their lives inspires me to continue what we are doing to reach the Arthritis Foundation's Mission - Create a world FREE of arthritis pain.
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