Camp to focus on juvenile arthritis

Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) is the most common form of juvenile arthritis, affecting close to 50,000 children in the U.S. Common symptoms are inflammation, fracture and damage of joints, as well as altered growth. Diagnosis can be a long and painful process. Fortunately, many children who face arthritis have also found a source of hope through the Arthritis Foundation’s Camp Esperanza.

Since 1985, Camp Esperanza has been a welcoming place for children ages 8 through 17 throughout Southern California living with juvenile arthritis.

Campers are given a chance to enjoy the pleasures of childhood and gain important skills by learning to be more independent while participating in group activities. This program helps enhance their self-esteem and allows the children to form lasting friendships.

The camp, located in Big Bear Lake, is a fvie-day, four-night residential summer camp offering traditional activities such as horseback riding, swimming, canoeing, archery and challenge courses, under the care of counselors and medical staff who are dedicated to working with children living with chronic diseases. Three sessions are offered annually in August.

For 15-year-old Natascha Skerczak of Calabasas, this will be her third year attending Camp Esperanza.

"Camp Esperanza has changed my life completely. My rheumatologist at Childrens Hospital Los Angeles told me about camp three years ago after I was diagnosed with JRA," said Natascha.

"My interactions with other campers have inspired me to not give up. It encouraged me to become involved in fun physical activities like dance. I now also know how to deal with the challenges."

Juvenile arthritis is a chronic condition requiring certain coping strategies for children, as well as family, teachers and others. Here are some recommended tips:

Have discussions about symptoms and possible side effects from medications.

Plan regular exchanges to help the teacher better meet the child’s educational needs.

Plan stretch breaks to relieve stiffness and ask classmates to join in.

Consider using ergonomic writing devices to provide comfort.

Work with physical education teachers to design appropriate exercises that meet the child’s needs.

For more information, please call (800) 954-CURE or visit www.arthritis.org.