Three Years this Month

*If you are here via http://thisbighappy.com/, thank you for visiting!! I hope you will find our story informative. And from my family to yours, Welcome!!*

This month marks three years since our youngest son was diagnosed with Idiopathic Juvenile Arthritis (type polyarticular). We've had some ups, we've had some downs, and we've learned a ton but are still learning more every day. Through this journey my family has gained so much in regards to love and understanding. When Jackson was first diagnosed, we felt alone. Arthritis?! What?! Children don't get arthritis. I am here to tell you that Kids Get Arthritis Too! There is a community of families that we have gained that "get it". I could not be more thankful for this.

Lately Jackson has been doing ok. I think he has finally figured out that he has to take his meds when he is supposed to, every 7 days. He is on Humira (I'm sure you've seen the commercials, if not go here). While I hate this med and the stress and tears it causes Jackson, it has been THE biologic to help him. I worry about the side effects, as there are many, but we had to make a decision. Without this medicine, Jackson may not be able to function like a normal 10 year old child. We are blessed that Jackson was diagnosed quickly, most children are not and the damage usually is or is on the way to being done.

While you're here reading our story, please take some time to read some our friend's blogs (links located to your left). Juvenile Arthritis is very real. Yes, my child may LOOK fine to you but on the inside, his body is fighting against him on a daily basis.

There is NO cure and that is something we all our fighting to change.

Ramblings

My lack of updates is sad. I know.

On more than one occasion I have started a new post and decided not to continue with it. I don't know what my problem is. Maybe I am rebelling against my own blog. Who knows.

I have nothing new to report. Jackson is still doing well. Let me be honest here. His case has never been bad. I mean it was in the beginning but because he was diagnosed quickly/early and because we found what works for him fast, he has been a mild case to say the least. He has several friends that are not doing so well and my heart breaks for these kids. I want to wave a magic wand over them, and Jackson too, and make this all go away for them and their families. But then I change my mind. I know that sounds awful but here me out on this one....

If it weren't for this HORRIBLE disease (yes, disease. This is not JUST arthritis, this is one's own body attacking itself) I would not have so many wonderful people in my life. My family has bonds with other JA families that no one can ever understand. This disease is bad, it hurts, and I hate it BUT without it, I would not have my JA family. Together we are fighting for a cure.

Wow, this blog has turned into me rambling. I have so much I want to say, so much I want to talk about it but I don't know how to voice it. I am always afraid that I will say the wrong thing. So sometimes I say nothing at all.

OK, I'm done.

Love to you all.