No, it’s not just grandpa who has to deal with arthritis.

It is a common misconception that only “old” people are afflicted with the debilitating disease.

Nearly 300,000 children in America have been diagnosed with juvenile arthritis.

These children suffer from various autoimmune forms of arthritis. Their bodies’ immune system is attacking their joints, causing swelling, stiffness and permanent damage.

This condition is extremely serious, and if left untreated, it can result in loss of mobility, blindness, and even death.

To top it off, there is also a link between arthritis and hearing loss, especially with medications used in treatment.

It all comes down to early diagnoses and treatment to help kids avoid nerve damage down the road.

These children deserve our support!

Tell at least one other person that July is Juvenile Arthritis Awareness Month. You can make a difference in these kids’ lives by making a donation towards juvenile arthritis research or by sharing your support on social media using the hashtag #CureArthritis.

Do you know somebody that needs to see this? Why not share it?

Deborah Clark, Au.D.

Dr. Deborah Clark has been with Pacific Hearing Service since 1998. In January 2008, she became co-owner working first in the Menlo Park office and now managing the Los Altos office. She is a Fellow of the American Academy of Audiology and is certified by the American Board of Audiology. She was on the board of the Hearing Loss Association of America, California State Association from 2010 – 2013, and served as Vice President.