JRA

JRA stands for Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis. This term is now part of our family vocabulary.


It all started back in July, around the time that we moved into our new home. As you can imagine, things were so hectic. One day, we (or maybe even Andy's aunt) noticed that Emma was limping. We asked her what happened, and she said she fell on the tile. A week or so later, we were in a store and noticed Emma's knee looked horrible as she tried to climb into the car part of the cart. The doctor's direction was Motrin, elevated leg, and an ace bandage. After a few weeks, the swelling was still around ~ some days were better than others. Therefore, x-rays were taken. Nothing looked broken, so we continued doing what we had been doing. This went on for the next month or so...until she fell again. Her knee immediately blew up like a balloon. I tried elevation, Motrin ~ and after a few days when it was still looking blah ~ I took her to the ER. X-rays were redone, and a referral to an ortho was given. We already knew him, due to Payton's extremely flat feet, so we were relieved to know we were going to someone we trusted. He looked at her and immediately said he suspected JRA. Two weeks later, October 30, we were given the news that she has a positive ANA result and we are to go to a pediatric rheumatologist in the city for the final clinical diagnosis.

I immediately called to make an appointment. At first we were told April/May before we would be able to see the doctor, however (thankfully) her appointment is for late January. Emma has also already seen a pediatric eye doctor, and based on her blood work ~ she will see the eye doctor every three months. She is also on a heavy anti-inflammatory medication.

I was asked at a Bible study wrap up celebration this weekend how I am holding up. I know that at this point, I am still in shock ~ and not allowing my emotions to hit the surface. Not just yet. I have so much going on in my head ~ part of which understands that the news could be worse. However, this is my child, my little Emma. It is upsetting and scary. I feel helpless. We know that people are out there praying for us ~ praying for our little Emma. We ask that you continue to pray ~ pray for God's guidance and wisdom.