Natalie Fox is an adorable, outgoing 4 year old who likes to dance & play dress-up. One thing that separates Natalie from other 4 year olds is her weekly injections for juvenile arthritis.
Natalie was diagnosed with juvenile arthritis when she was just 2 years old. It began in her left knee, she was unable to move it at all. After seeing a pediatrician, an orthopedist, numerous blood tests & x-rays, Natalie was diagnosed with juvenile arthritis.
Natalie’s mother Rachel says, “These were long days and it was a long journey!” Natalie endured surgery, long nights at Children’s Hospital, several weeks in an immobilizer & daily medication –most which had to be crushed & placed in her food. All of this and nothing seemed to be managing her condition.
Natalie was eventually referred to a pediatric rheumatologist. The Arthritis Foundation partnered with UAB & Children’s Hospital in 2007 to raise funds to endow a pediatric rheumatologist. Until then there were no such specialists in Alabama. Now we have 3!
Natalie’s mother Rachel says, “It was only at that time that her condition was known, understood & well-managed. Natalie is a success story of good rheumatological care & good timing! Natalie’s juvenile arthritis symptoms began in June, & we received rheumatology care the following September. Many patients are not so lucky! Natalie currently enjoys an almost pain-free, normal life like most children her age. If it were not for such good pediatric rheumatology care, I am not sure she would be where she is today!
Please come out to Mudbugs & Music on Saturday, May 22nd to support kids with arthritis!
