The “Stories of Hope” series sheds light on the inspiring journeys of JM patients and families as they continue to conquer the challenges that come with juvenile myositis.
These tales of hope remind us that anything is possible and that hope for a brighter future is ahead. We continue to fight progress and persevere to live our best lives.
At 12 years old, Emma’s world was turned upside down. An energetic cheerleader who loved spending time with her friends, she suddenly found herself constantly fatigued, her muscles weak and aching. What began as mild discomfort quickly escalated into something far more serious.
Like other teens new to the JM journey, Catie Beth Caldwell and Madi Cook were two individuals who felt alone at the beginning of their journeys. Catie Beth was diagnosed just before the Covid-19 pandemic took hold of the world as we knew it. With this came feelings of isolation and loneliness. These emotions were commonplace for many teens but were only compounded by teens new to a rare disease diagnosis. These first years of the “new normal” were difficult to navigate.
We would like to introduce a one-of-a-kind, competitive, and determined young man, named Parrish. His story of resiliency and hope is one that will resonate with many of us in the Cure JM family. Parrish faced many challenges in his journey with JM, but found hope and support in his family and the Cure JM community. We are pleased to now share his experience to help others facing the same struggles during Myositis Awareness Month.
Austin Krainz, diagnosed with juvenile dermatomyositis at the age of seven, overcame the challenges of a rare disease with the support of his family and pioneering treatment from Dr. Lauren Pachman. After more than a decade of battling the illness, Austin entered remission, fulfilling his childhood dream of professional racing in Porsche’s GT America series.
Spring break should be about fun and relaxation. Sandi and her husband Zack expected their trip to Mexico would be the same. Of course, taking
Two Grandmother’s share their story and experience when their granddaughter Emma is diagnosed with JM.
Sari’s pain began in September of 2018, during gymnastics practice. It started in her shoulder. She didn’t give it much thought. But then it worsened,
Cure JM recently had the pleasure of interviewing a remarkable individual who hails from Canton, Ohio, and brings a wealth of experience and love to her family. With a vibrant history spanning over five decades of marriage, three daughters, and a rich tapestry of grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Anita Mottice’s journey is as inspiring as it is heartwarming. As a retired nurse and devoted wife, Anita shares her profound connection with her family, particularly her grandchild Sydney, who has been diagnosed with Juvenile Myositis (JM).
Building friendships with others in the JM community can be difficult. Since JM is a rare disease, medical common ground might be a state away.
Alexandra grew up in Philadelphia. At eight years old, she was diagnosed with juvenile dermatomyositis. Her first symptom was pain in her cuticles whenever she
Kindergarten is about making friends, learning how to count by two’s, and reading Biscuit books. But for Madi, Kindergarten was not so simple.
Cadence was only 18 months old when she was diagnosed with juvenile dermatomyositis. Her mother took her to their pediatrician’s office multiple times, only for
Nathanael was an active 7-year-old. In the summer of 2014, he played baseball under the Southern California sun, and that’s when the rash started. “He
Despite battling juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM) as a child, Alex Hackney never envisioned becoming a marathon runner, let alone completing prestigious races like the Chicago and New York Marathons. With over 15 years of grappling with JDM, Alex recently completing her third marathon and found closure and perspective in Chicago.
Natalia is seven years old, and in January 2021, she began experiencing pain. Everyday tasks were difficult. Natalia’s parents, Lindsay and Matt, reached out to
Olivia is four years old, and she’s been fighting juvenile myositis for almost two years. At the beginning of her treatment, Olivia’s parents, Leah and
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