tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33290301999075880642024-03-13T09:31:53.694-05:00Savannah's Life with Juvenile Arthritis (JIA) (JRA)Savannah was diagnosed with Polyarticular Juvenile Arthritis and Spondyloarthritis at the age of 8 years old. This blog is dedicated to all the prayer warriors who lift up Savannah in prayer and the 300,000 children in the U.S. who suffer with juvenile arthritis. We want others to know that kids get arthritis, too.
hopeforsavannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04467864938336814241noreply@blogger.comBlogger80125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3329030199907588064.post-72249661472916349122019-05-27T21:14:00.001-05:002019-12-17T22:27:13.789-06:00I started this blog as a journey of a child’s life with juvenile arthritis...<br />
<br />
...the ups and downs, the doctor visits and treatment options, overcoming pain, and how Savannah lived her life to the fullest despite a juvenile arthritis diagnosis.<br />
<br />
My daughter Savannah still deals with arthritis every day, but she does not let arthritis define who she is. She has started her own blog - Word and Sunshine. It can be found on Instagram, Facebook, and on the web at wordandsunshine.home.blog<br />
<br />
She chooses to share the joy of living one’s best life, despite challenges. So, I end this blog here, for it is time for this girl to fly solo! My prayer is that this blog has blessed you in some way. Savannah is a fighter...and while arthritis is part of her story, she is stronger and a better person because of it. Thank you for all your prayers and sharing Savannah’s journey. 💜<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IH8N7BqO6Wo/XOyai7trr3I/AAAAAAAAA48/tstYCCd73x0xnZFgDtl8I5LZSEKFp4z_ACLcBGAs/s1600/E922FEEE-2253-4C98-AC68-FF6729F24669.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1448" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IH8N7BqO6Wo/XOyai7trr3I/AAAAAAAAA48/tstYCCd73x0xnZFgDtl8I5LZSEKFp4z_ACLcBGAs/s400/E922FEEE-2253-4C98-AC68-FF6729F24669.jpeg" width="361" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />hopeforsavannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04467864938336814241noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3329030199907588064.post-52553439323924822432018-12-18T20:11:00.004-06:002022-04-19T12:01:32.811-05:00Juvenile Arthritis - Choosing Joy!Winter months are difficult for Savannah. The cold days and change in barometric pressure seemed to wreak havoc on Savannah’s joint pain. At age 16, Savannah has now lived with a diagnosed condition (Spondyloarthritis and Psoriatic Arthritis) for eight years...though the pain started soon after her birth....we just did not know why she could not sleep soundly.<br />
*<br />
Savannah has never slept completely through the night...ever. I kept waiting for my newborn Savannah to sleep through the night...3 months passed, then 6 months...1 year, 2 years, now 16 years have passed, and Savannah is yet to sleep through the night without awakening several times. I did not understand why Savannah never slept through a night until her diagnosis. You see, her joint pain awakens her as her joints stiffen after staying still for too long....this includes lying in bed.<br />
*<br />
Older people with arthritis might understand this pain that I am describing...as Savannah’s 44 year old mother, I do not know this pain, and I sleep fairly well each night....always have.<br />
*<br />
Truth: I slept with Savannah for years trying to help her manage... getting heating pads, ibuprofen, rubbing her joints, or whatever else she might have needed to manage the pain. When she got to her teen years, she slept on her own, and managed on her own. -Accept, two nights ago, she asked if I would stay by her side...the pain was worse than usual. Throughout the night, Savannah flailed, got up numerous times to stretch, take Advil, or change positions in the bed...all trying to relieve the pain in her body.<br />
*<br />
I realized the pain was still so real, so present, and began to cry. <br />
*<br />
Then, Savannah reached over and told me not to cry, she reminded me she was use to the pain and not sleeping well...that this was her “normal.” She also reminded me that if one chooses to be thankful and serve others, it is hard to feel sorry for yourself and feel sad. So, this is what Savannah does...she shares joy, chooses to look for blessings around her, serves others...and the pain is no longer the victor.<br />
*<br />
Thank you, Savannah, for reminding me to choose joy in this life! Savannah prays you will look for the many blessings in your life, no matter your challenges...<br />
and to always look for the joy around you.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1ppOegm1Uhc/XBmofbmpl2I/AAAAAAAAA3o/4OBZ3XR8TcIwBlTymJFnME98bgnmU6KLwCLcBGAs/s1600/D63016F7-6E2F-4DF1-9C42-0C143BB16D72.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1149" height="208" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1ppOegm1Uhc/XBmofbmpl2I/AAAAAAAAA3o/4OBZ3XR8TcIwBlTymJFnME98bgnmU6KLwCLcBGAs/s320/D63016F7-6E2F-4DF1-9C42-0C143BB16D72.jpeg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1ppOegm1Uhc/XBmofbmpl2I/AAAAAAAAA3o/4OBZ3XR8TcIwBlTymJFnME98bgnmU6KLwCLcBGAs/s1600/D63016F7-6E2F-4DF1-9C42-0C143BB16D72.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"> </a></div>
hopeforsavannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04467864938336814241noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3329030199907588064.post-26306424017388589882018-11-13T10:45:00.000-06:002018-11-20T16:06:19.612-06:00Teenage Blogger...This Girl is spreading joy and encouragement.This is not my typical post for Savannah. Instead of talking about juvenile arthritis, I am sharing that Savannah has launched her own blog! There are many blogs out there, but few are written by teens. If you need a dose of sunshine, here it is! She will discuss triumphs, challenges, anxieties, heartbreak, and living a life for God as a teen. Also, not settling for less than God’s best in your life will be addressed, along with “dating with a purpose.” Savannah is God’s vessel, and she wants you to run the race of life alone side of her. Her target audience is teen girls, but males, females, young, and old can benefit from her blog. Feel free to share her site!!!<br />
<a href="http://wordandsunshine.home.blog/" target="_blank">Savannah’s personal blog to encourage teen girls</a>:<a href="http://wordandsunshine.home.blog/">wordandsunshine.home.blog</a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://wordandsunshine.home.blog/">wordandsunshine.home.blog</a><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1328" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-afTuAUAOjGk/W-r_YVv3f8I/AAAAAAAAA28/an-kjUvAWYI4wMibPPawjZw6Naa7HmI2wCLcBGAs/s400/ED626D93-60EB-41CE-885D-28C44A1D371B.jpeg" width="331" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a href="http://wordandsunshine.home.blog/">wordandsunshine.home.blog</a>hopeforsavannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04467864938336814241noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3329030199907588064.post-34024152739681643702018-10-17T08:54:00.000-05:002018-10-17T09:08:43.880-05:00Finish the Race<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z10qh_-hA8c/W8dCGvKuZyI/AAAAAAAAA0U/yPVSRCVzU_8VGQ3vyYl8bNFdWKhWrQ94wCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/file2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z10qh_-hA8c/W8dCGvKuZyI/AAAAAAAAA0U/yPVSRCVzU_8VGQ3vyYl8bNFdWKhWrQ94wCK4BGAYYCw/s200/file2.jpeg" width="200" /></a>As Savannah approaches her 16th birthday this weekend, I am amazed at the young lady she has become. No, this post is not about arthritis pain, but living a life with purpose despite your obstacles...whatever they may be.<br />
<div>
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O581IsEF2c8/W8dCJyMLiVI/AAAAAAAAA0c/Lfs8aytevoA-HGdcszIdR4BRFE7BXOSZQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/file4.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O581IsEF2c8/W8dCJyMLiVI/AAAAAAAAA0c/Lfs8aytevoA-HGdcszIdR4BRFE7BXOSZQCK4BGAYYCw/s320/file4.jpeg" width="284" /></a>Savannah ran her first 5K trail run this last weekend...well, she attempted to, anyways. You see, Savannah ran the first mile like the wind, faster than I have ever seen her run...then, gut wrenching pain seized her stomach. She slowed her pace, grabbed her stomach in seething pain. She had to quit the race one mile in, attempting to just make it to the bathroom because she was about to spew from both ends (her words, not mine😜). We try to keep it real on this blog, and sometimes life is not pretty, and definitely not ideal. However, after spending some time with the “porcelain thrown,” Savannah returned to the course and finished the race. The stomach cramps had not left, she wanted to give up, she could not run due to pain, it might have been last place she came in...but, she finished because she was not going to give up...she fought her way to the end, gritting her teeth. Her friends went back for her...so she would not have to finish alone...to support her because they love her. So, this soon to be girl with a drivers license keeps making her way through this life the best she can, mike by mile, inch by inch...and she wants her readers to do the same.<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7ogB-V213XE/W8dCOKczPyI/AAAAAAAAA0k/PVXZdSJxUNsaQoSdiE-_PTyCvh8Qda7OgCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/file3.jpeg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7ogB-V213XE/W8dCOKczPyI/AAAAAAAAA0k/PVXZdSJxUNsaQoSdiE-_PTyCvh8Qda7OgCK4BGAYYCw/s400/file3.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
hopeforsavannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04467864938336814241noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3329030199907588064.post-58565132619467613662018-04-15T14:26:00.000-05:002018-04-15T14:26:10.086-05:00Teenagers with Arthritis - The Sky is the Limit!!!Savannah is swimming on the City League this summer…a first for her! It requires commitment, hard work, and no excuses! Swimming is such a great fit for anyone suffering with arthritis of any age. So, if you are a teenager with arthritis and don't think you can play sports because of it…think again! Try swim!!!!!<br />
<br />
Thank you, everyone, for praying for Savannah through the years and cheering her on. She has come so far…and a lot of that is because of your prayers.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FwNjdFBZyj4/WtOm_lQMoNI/AAAAAAAAAyw/z8MsiTkohI4c8z-aELBHxol1wDOwcIerQCLcBGAs/s1600/file-1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1161" data-original-width="1600" height="232" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FwNjdFBZyj4/WtOm_lQMoNI/AAAAAAAAAyw/z8MsiTkohI4c8z-aELBHxol1wDOwcIerQCLcBGAs/s320/file-1.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
hopeforsavannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04467864938336814241noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3329030199907588064.post-9097419121550693072018-03-01T14:28:00.000-06:002018-03-05T07:09:58.285-06:00Overcoming Adversity and Reclaiming Life - A Teen with Juvenile Arthritis<div align="center" style="color: #212121; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
The following was written by Savannah Nelson for a class at school.</div>
<div align="center" style="color: #212121; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
A glimpse inside the life of a teen with Juvenile Arthritis.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WybIje8_OH4/Wphg8gZrHCI/AAAAAAAAAxI/OnWEWQ13CFQXxpKhd3_Dmix3CWD2hPZSQCLcBGAs/s1600/12778763_10206605819199994_6777284837405527061_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WybIje8_OH4/Wphg8gZrHCI/AAAAAAAAAxI/OnWEWQ13CFQXxpKhd3_Dmix3CWD2hPZSQCLcBGAs/s400/12778763_10206605819199994_6777284837405527061_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" style="color: #212121; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black;">The Photograph</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif , serif , "emojifont";"></span></div>
<div class="x_MsoNormal" style="color: #212121; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #212121; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="color: black;">In my room, I have a picture of my seventh grade JV soccer team in a huddle. For most where that photo might just represent past memories, for me, it symbolizes reclaiming my future. When I was in second grade, soccer was my life. My days were spent at camps, games, practices, and trying to simulate the lives of my favorite players. Everything I did was connected to the sport, and I lived for the rush of stealing the other team's ball and ensuring it made its way into the goal. The only problem was the opponent wasn’t my only adversary, but also my own body. All my life, I had struggled with extreme pain in my fingers, and as time went on, the agony had spread to my feet. As the seasons rolled through, the pain progressed, but so did my passion. It got to the point where my father had to carry me off the field after games due to the extreme pain in my feet. Even then, I never missed a practice. </span><span style="color: black; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif , serif , "emojifont";"></span></div>
<div style="color: #212121; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="color: black;">My joints caved on me the following season, and I was forced to give up the sport I loved. I was diagnosed with Juvenile Psoriatic Arthritis and Spondyloarthritis a few months later. From there, I fell into a state of self-pity, and my own thoughts imprisoned me. Many years, medications, and infusions later, I slowly made progress, both physically and mentally. My seventh grade year, I had put myself back together enough to work up the courage to try out for the soccer team. This wasn’t only a choice to join a sport, but a decision to break the shackles that held me to my past. I practiced everyday after school for weeks leading up to the tryouts, and when the roster was posted…there was my name listed…I had made it! I will never forget the weight that had burdened me for so long being lifted. After that season, I learned that soccer just wasn’t my love anymore, but even so, it gave me something in a way nothing else could: my life back.</span></div>
<div style="color: #212121; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 32px; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<br /></div>
hopeforsavannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04467864938336814241noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3329030199907588064.post-47985196234060797072018-01-10T11:42:00.003-06:002018-01-10T11:44:35.449-06:00Weather Conditions…Dealing with the pain.<div>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZGBsjFyy6Pw/WlZP56Hr4pI/AAAAAAAAAvs/z0Av7poo4uIVoSeQuYjWy-_etZoGAK6CQCLcBGAs/s1600/th-1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="231" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZGBsjFyy6Pw/WlZP56Hr4pI/AAAAAAAAAvs/z0Av7poo4uIVoSeQuYjWy-_etZoGAK6CQCLcBGAs/s320/th-1.jpeg" width="246" /></a></div>
The weather. Freezing cold, then warmer, then a drop in pressure, storms coming accompanied with a cold front….the weather conditions can be murderous on someone with arthritis! However, if you are a teenager with arthritis, you have to walk to classes, take numerous notes in class, participate in sports….be a teenager! These tasks, that should be so simple, can be near impossible because of painful joints. Savannah had a hard time just standing in the kitchen this morning before school. She took her arthritis prescription medicine and Aleve…but she needs more! She just texted me asking what more she could do for the pain. My answer, we will pray harder!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
hopeforsavannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04467864938336814241noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3329030199907588064.post-76642467308449722282017-10-11T10:54:00.000-05:002017-10-11T10:54:08.352-05:00Juvenile Arthritis - Finish the Race!<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kp8bGo4elwI/Wd430369CwI/AAAAAAAAArE/bSkiqCgZ_U0gImIG3JHvX-66DNmQ3O_CwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_0400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kp8bGo4elwI/Wd430369CwI/AAAAAAAAArE/bSkiqCgZ_U0gImIG3JHvX-66DNmQ3O_CwCLcBGAs/s200/IMG_0400.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
<br />
Living as a teen with arthritis is kind of like Savannah's swim meet yesterday…some days you get rained on. After a fifteen minute delay as the rain poured in Mobile, AL, the meet continued…and Savannah got her best personal times ever!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WjeE17-r0yI/Wd44r1OoK7I/AAAAAAAAArM/9xw86eHnZmkanukpw7NEF4gyW7aWCyCbQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_0403.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WjeE17-r0yI/Wd44r1OoK7I/AAAAAAAAArM/9xw86eHnZmkanukpw7NEF4gyW7aWCyCbQCLcBGAs/s200/IMG_0403.jpg" width="200" /></a>Much of Savannah's success is due to the people whom cheer her on everyday…Jenna, Sarah, Lauren, Garrett, and Nolan to name just a few. These two guys came straight from a college exam to cheer Savannah on…we love you Cody and Kyle! To everyone who reads this blog, the power of an encouraging word to those struggling can mean the difference of finishing a race…and finishing it strong!!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o_9gDBWDDEE/Wd46FDn_bOI/AAAAAAAAArY/L-ag_JP3Hf8udrdfPNFBZumiy2AL3vgjQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC02296.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o_9gDBWDDEE/Wd46FDn_bOI/AAAAAAAAArY/L-ag_JP3Hf8udrdfPNFBZumiy2AL3vgjQCLcBGAs/s200/DSC02296.jpg" width="200" /></a>It was just five years ago Savannah could hardly walk, let alone run. She competed in a one mile run…and it took everything in her to finish that race…but her friend Hope cheered her on that day, and even ran across the finish line with her….reminding her she can overcome her challenges.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AKxRlHB_4GI/Wd49HvOka2I/AAAAAAAAArk/zQTZw1niAAoCsENRswrVJI2w9no7ZJD-wCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_0281.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AKxRlHB_4GI/Wd49HvOka2I/AAAAAAAAArk/zQTZw1niAAoCsENRswrVJI2w9no7ZJD-wCLcBGAs/s200/IMG_0281.jpg" width="150" /></a>This weekend, Savannah will attempt her first 5K without assistance (i.e. wheelchair). Savannah may not have the best time on the clock at the end of the race, but <i>finishing</i> will be her goal. Mornings are hard for most anyone with arthritis (joints are very stiff), so the 7am start time with be a challenge within itself. However, with friends encouraging her…she has the courage to try. As her friends run, part of Savannah's spirit will be with them wishing she was running beside them. However, Savannah plans to walk…and she hopes to walk for all the Juvenile Arthritis kids who cannot walk because of the pain within them. Don't give up, because even though there are rainy days on this journey, the sunshine will come again. Meanwhile, Savannah will walk for you.hopeforsavannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04467864938336814241noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3329030199907588064.post-38278922964913849942017-09-16T17:03:00.000-05:002017-09-20T14:25:43.801-05:00JIA: Sometimes All You need is Someone to Cheer You On!2017 swim season has officially begun! This is going to be a short, but sweet post. Savannah's arthritis has still yet to ever go in remission, but it is manageable with prayer, sulfasalazine, and friends cheering you on! Life with JIA is definitely a roller coaster, but today was a very good day!! Also, Savannah got her best personal time<i> </i><u>ever</u> in 50 freestyle!! She also finished strong in breaststroke.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tMWWfaPbPDE/Wb2fOtqPdJI/AAAAAAAAApI/-8yo4P0pU8k3t8LkIe5zch3H-yiSGIWewCLcBGAs/s1600/FullSizeRender-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="1260" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tMWWfaPbPDE/Wb2fOtqPdJI/AAAAAAAAApI/-8yo4P0pU8k3t8LkIe5zch3H-yiSGIWewCLcBGAs/s320/FullSizeRender-2.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Precious friend cheering Savannah on during breaststroke.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ouKkcnYDad4/Wb2fOrvnDvI/AAAAAAAAApM/SDGcHadt_yEEhmoVl0-k7aTFxOqUqqelwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_0238.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="1512" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ouKkcnYDad4/Wb2fOrvnDvI/AAAAAAAAApM/SDGcHadt_yEEhmoVl0-k7aTFxOqUqqelwCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_0238.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some of the female swimmers at PCA …so blessed!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
hopeforsavannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04467864938336814241noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3329030199907588064.post-33385213387408196692017-04-02T15:35:00.003-05:002017-10-14T14:21:20.468-05:00Her Joints Were Not Made to Walk Large College Campuses...but, God is Writing Savannah's Story<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3SaIoWXz558/WOFgZ2UhXSI/AAAAAAAAAoo/TMI6wp2H4cQf5n0wrYo9QV_NJ4k1hNNNACLcB/s1600/IMG_0159.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3SaIoWXz558/WOFgZ2UhXSI/AAAAAAAAAoo/TMI6wp2H4cQf5n0wrYo9QV_NJ4k1hNNNACLcB/s320/IMG_0159.jpg" width="240" /></a>Savannah is in Science Olympiad at school...you know where a bunch of kids get together and make and learn great science stuff! (Oh, forgive me science teacher for this pitiful description). Anyways, her school made it to state this year where she and her teammates competed with 14 other schools from Alabama at Auburn University. AUBURN...a <i>beautiful</i> university campus and one my daughter has dreamed of possibly attending for many, many years...well, until yesterday. After walking all over campus for her different events, Savannah's joints were screaming in pain! Her joints are just not made to walk great distances all day long, especially when she is in a flare. But God is telling this girl's story, and where a door closes, another one will open. We believe a smaller college campus is in this girl's future. So, if any other Juvenile Arthritis families have any advice on attending a small school campus verses a big school campus, please comment below. We can all learn from each other. Also, everyone who is reading this, thank you for taking this journey with us.<br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Everybody, come take my hand.</i><br />
<i>We'll walk this road, together, through the storms, </i><br />
<i>Whatever weather, cold or warm.</i><br />
<i>Just letting you know,</i><br />
<i>that you are not alone.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
hopeforsavannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04467864938336814241noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3329030199907588064.post-28065655736294413792017-03-14T09:45:00.000-05:002017-03-14T20:39:52.687-05:00It's Back!! Arthritis has returned, but she pushes forward.<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1lKpEhAnouk/WMgBZZgs2fI/AAAAAAAAAoQ/oBz5_xxUf-UmrfoKHwvDapvtZ8Srdz3mQCLcB/s1600/IMG_0015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1lKpEhAnouk/WMgBZZgs2fI/AAAAAAAAAoQ/oBz5_xxUf-UmrfoKHwvDapvtZ8Srdz3mQCLcB/s200/IMG_0015.jpg" width="150" /></a><br />
It started with pain in her knee. Then pain in her ankles. Then she had trouble writing. We knew the signs, but you just want to pretend it is not there. The pain never really left, but it had become manageable. Now, to write three sentences is a challenge. She is in athletics 7th period because she is on the School Swim Team first semester. Swim= Awesome for joints! Running stadium steps second semester to "stay in shape"= totally horrible for someone with active arthritis in her knees and ankles. Yet, she refuses to give up because she doesn't want to be seen as different. Can anyone else relate?? Love this girl. If you can relate, know you are not alone. Savannah is walking this path with you...and some days the walk is awfully hard. She still pushes forward, though...because she chooses to.hopeforsavannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04467864938336814241noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3329030199907588064.post-21440442095616928902016-10-13T09:07:00.003-05:002016-10-13T09:11:31.137-05:00JIA Families...A New BeginningDear JIA families,<br />
<br />
I have shared on this blog the good and the bad with Savannah's journey with arthritis. Savannah has seen two years of monthly infusions, jaw injections twice, years of daily medicine, being in a wheelchair because of severe pain, weekly shots, sleepless nights...you get the picture. But now, we want to share the good from it all. Savannah is compassionate, a fighter, looks for the positive, courageous, and more well rounded because of her arthritis journey. And now, she is also a child of Christ. We want to share this joy with our readers because this blog is not only about a child's arthritis journey, but the blessings in spite of it. Savannah became a Christian Oct. 6, 2016 through faith and obedience. To God be the glory!!!<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LK2OL3HgkPM/V_-VFoQmU1I/AAAAAAAAAnc/vaDEZQxUqJ8eKJ6PIUSf0X5PfYl7HbviACLcB/s1600/IMG_2532.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="187" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LK2OL3HgkPM/V_-VFoQmU1I/AAAAAAAAAnc/vaDEZQxUqJ8eKJ6PIUSf0X5PfYl7HbviACLcB/s320/IMG_2532.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Savannah being baptized by her Papa.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
hopeforsavannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04467864938336814241noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3329030199907588064.post-35438599712944314312016-09-16T08:43:00.001-05:002016-09-16T10:17:34.237-05:00Juvenile Arthritis and Swimming...a Great Combination<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3wp9Z8w_sok/V9v0pyRJEaI/AAAAAAAAAmc/felsV_YkgSIfwZds-SDNebnaeH2hZINDgCLcB/s1600/IMG_2401.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3wp9Z8w_sok/V9v0pyRJEaI/AAAAAAAAAmc/felsV_YkgSIfwZds-SDNebnaeH2hZINDgCLcB/s200/IMG_2401.jpg" width="151" /></a><br />
Savannah had her first swim meet today...it was a great success! She swam with all her heart and her joints handled it wonderfully. Savannah is so blessed in so many ways and we thank God for the Prattville Christian Academy swim team! Thank you to all who have prayed for Savannah as we celebrate this blessing together!<br />
<br />
Yes, life with Juvenile Arthritis is a roller coaster, and we thank God for times like these that are wonderful and down right fun! ... And when we hit a dip or crazy part of this ride/journey with arthritis...we will remember days like today...and we will be thankful.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bDPSLZr9hU8/V9v0rVEzCKI/AAAAAAAAAmk/OHUyhGVcLw41S3hrRH-l2sJrTszaejSIgCLcB/s1600/IMG_2404.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bDPSLZr9hU8/V9v0rVEzCKI/AAAAAAAAAmk/OHUyhGVcLw41S3hrRH-l2sJrTszaejSIgCLcB/s320/IMG_2404.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T9WyIbPVpos/V9v0q8mv1CI/AAAAAAAAAmg/EtIQ0SsV_nEZgSPpIviei_bpKMMs95SOwCLcB/s1600/IMG_2414.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T9WyIbPVpos/V9v0q8mv1CI/AAAAAAAAAmg/EtIQ0SsV_nEZgSPpIviei_bpKMMs95SOwCLcB/s400/IMG_2414.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />hopeforsavannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04467864938336814241noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3329030199907588064.post-37858127425626403152016-09-14T11:04:00.003-05:002016-09-16T10:19:36.152-05:00Juvenile Arthritis -Teenage Years and Junior High - What HelpsI haven't posted in a long while...sorry about that. Sometimes you just don't know what to say, because life is a roller coaster with juvenile arthritis. <br />
<br />
SO....here are some helpful ideas for living with arthritis as an 8th grader, so far.<br />
<br />
1. Savannah's locker: All lockers at Savannah's junior high school have a lock built into the locker....<i>all lockers but ONE</i>...Savannah's locker. This is because the school physically removed Savannah's lock on her locker because her hands are not able to maneuver the opening of the lock due to the arthritis in her fingers and hands. We are thankful to the school for doing this...sometimes you just have to ask.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X0NEU2MTzc8/V9lrqqhOUUI/AAAAAAAAAlY/NMus0vHugu8CTbOljfVXAys9uCNkAmSWACLcB/s1600/images-1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X0NEU2MTzc8/V9lrqqhOUUI/AAAAAAAAAlY/NMus0vHugu8CTbOljfVXAys9uCNkAmSWACLcB/s1600/images-1.jpeg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
2. Savannah has joined the school swim team! This is a huge thing, because this is the first sport she has played that has really not affected her joints for the negative...in fact, the movement is great for her joints!! Soccer may be a thing of the past (so much running was killing her ankles and feet), but swim...well, it is a blessing from God for Savannah. Looking for a great school sport for arthritis...try SWIMMING!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HFnF_yVz_cQ/V9wNen-o_yI/AAAAAAAAAnA/_0lpCavDfbk-7qR2VNRP3CRP-yA5PyIQACLcB/s1600/IMG_2413.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HFnF_yVz_cQ/V9wNen-o_yI/AAAAAAAAAnA/_0lpCavDfbk-7qR2VNRP3CRP-yA5PyIQACLcB/s320/IMG_2413.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
3. Savannah still uses her pencil grip to write every day, but sometimes there are too many notes to write down for hands with arthritis to manage. So, Savannah takes her phone or computer and takes a picture of the notes on the board as the teacher writes them down. She then prints them up on our printer and puts them in her notebook for future studying and notebook checks.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xxQNUqDkJOY/V9lxHENj2DI/AAAAAAAAAlk/IH8zMGUXsUs0CUIMPPWWC50N70qzDLrWgCLcB/s1600/Photo%2Bon%2B2014-08-15%2Bat%2B11.13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xxQNUqDkJOY/V9lxHENj2DI/AAAAAAAAAlk/IH8zMGUXsUs0CUIMPPWWC50N70qzDLrWgCLcB/s200/Photo%2Bon%2B2014-08-15%2Bat%2B11.13.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LtpPKsyFlzo/V9lzDsF0JnI/AAAAAAAAAls/XkGtXVeAu1gazmi39nHWhwnQi28ENHCMACLcB/s1600/content-audit-meetup-whiteboard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="148" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LtpPKsyFlzo/V9lzDsF0JnI/AAAAAAAAAls/XkGtXVeAu1gazmi39nHWhwnQi28ENHCMACLcB/s200/content-audit-meetup-whiteboard.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
4. SUCK IT UP! Yes, this is the term we use amongst ourselves. Sometimes, no matter how much it hurts, you just have to "suck it up" and deal with the pain as best you can. If Savannah wants to wear some cute shoes without her shoe inserts, she "sucks it up". If Savannah wants to run the football on and off the field as "ball girl" to help manage the varsity football team on Friday nights, she "sucks it up" (even though this simple act makes her feet and ankles scream by the end of the game). Get the point?! Don't let arthritis stop you from doing things that are most important to you. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QkEBeV0KEuc/V9lzcXULDhI/AAAAAAAAAlw/9TpOi2XghfUN_ddIMRwUAA-lzb6PXqZKwCLcB/s1600/CAM00118.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QkEBeV0KEuc/V9lzcXULDhI/AAAAAAAAAlw/9TpOi2XghfUN_ddIMRwUAA-lzb6PXqZKwCLcB/s320/CAM00118.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: left;">Savannah's life is more than arthritis...it is full of so many opportunities and blessings.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
hopeforsavannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04467864938336814241noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3329030199907588064.post-66575145856106611682016-03-15T21:52:00.002-05:002016-03-15T21:54:13.482-05:00Playing Soccer...Overcoming Arthritis with Prayers and Hard Work!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1qQzEhSyE8g/VujJCf32xzI/AAAAAAAAAkw/KBoeatgq9oIFP8kyRT8OH2uyL_HHBYOqg/s1600/12819250_10206703091671745_7444055368792367043_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1qQzEhSyE8g/VujJCf32xzI/AAAAAAAAAkw/KBoeatgq9oIFP8kyRT8OH2uyL_HHBYOqg/s320/12819250_10206703091671745_7444055368792367043_o.jpg" title="" width="240" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Savannah got some playing time in her school's JV soccer game tonight. Living the dream with the help of prayers and determination. </span>hopeforsavannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04467864938336814241noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3329030199907588064.post-1181647985358725842016-02-27T13:55:00.001-06:002016-02-27T21:40:54.811-06:00Victory Over Juvenile Arthritis...Fighting Back and Praising GodToday is a long awaited post. This post would not be possible without Savannah's prayer warriors. Savannah played in her first JV soccer game...and they won, 8-0! However, the biggest victory is Savannah being able to play. Just four years ago, Savannah was in a wheelchair on her worst days...the pain too bad for her to even walk, let alone run. Through God and prayer, grit, and lots of determination...she accomplished her dream...playing soccer again. <span style="background-color: #b6d7a8; color: red;">#nevergiveuponyourdreams</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-raIPPZrle94/VtJsEf30A2I/AAAAAAAAAkY/C5mPQ3nI6nc/s1600/thumbnail_IMG_0582.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="268" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-raIPPZrle94/VtJsEf30A2I/AAAAAAAAAkY/C5mPQ3nI6nc/s320/thumbnail_IMG_0582.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All smiles...ready for first game!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Jis2ppcnYT0/VtH-tZHZ7uI/AAAAAAAAAj8/L_XAINlBYGk/s1600/DSCN3188.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="208" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Jis2ppcnYT0/VtH-tZHZ7uI/AAAAAAAAAj8/L_XAINlBYGk/s320/DSCN3188.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some of Savannah's closest friends...living the dream together.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
hopeforsavannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04467864938336814241noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3329030199907588064.post-1881648999497593182015-10-14T11:59:00.000-05:002015-10-14T12:00:42.227-05:00She made the JV Soccer Team!!! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4PQWIbwUXHw/Vh6JP13dRwI/AAAAAAAAAjM/kPhhR6p5qD0/s1600/Unknown.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4PQWIbwUXHw/Vh6JP13dRwI/AAAAAAAAAjM/kPhhR6p5qD0/s320/Unknown.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>God is bigger than Juvenile Arthritis!!! Savannah made the JV soccer team at her school! Thank you for your prayers! It made a difference!</b></span></div>
hopeforsavannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04467864938336814241noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3329030199907588064.post-62286163926320953432015-09-12T08:15:00.000-05:002015-09-12T08:15:25.601-05:00She is Trying Out for Soccer!! - Please, Keep Praying!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-chzm_L9-MW8/VfQj__-meqI/AAAAAAAAAig/8nL5siDf_rQ/s1600/Unknown.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-chzm_L9-MW8/VfQj__-meqI/AAAAAAAAAig/8nL5siDf_rQ/s1600/Unknown.jpeg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Your prayers are being heard. She is overcoming <i>FEAR</i> with<b> COURAGE</b> and trying out for her school soccer team in October. Please continue to pray, that if it is God's will, she will play again. <b>Juvenile Arthritis...God is bigger than you.</b>hopeforsavannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04467864938336814241noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3329030199907588064.post-24929285877134456972015-08-31T10:32:00.000-05:002015-08-31T10:32:02.250-05:00Juvenile Artritis (JIA/JRA) - Jaw Involvement - Helpful InformationTo my readers of this blog:<br />
<br />
One of the things I am contacted most about is information on jaw involvement with Juvenile Arthritis. Let's face it, there is not a lot of information out there. After one of my readers contacted me seeking more information, I looked to a couple of my fellow JIA moms for wisdom. The following is from a mom who has a daughter with extreme jaw involvement. Dr. Cron and Dr. Waite, mentioned in her writings, are located in Birmingham, AL. They are believed to be some of the experts of this field. I asked permission to share my friend's information in hoping it might help another family looking for any information concerning inflammation in the jaw with JIA. My prayer is that it helps someone. -Jenny Nelson<span id="goog_1580984432"></span><span id="goog_1580984433"></span><br />
<br />
<br />
<blockquote style="color: #212121; font-family: wf_segoe-ui_normal, 'Segoe UI', 'Segoe WP', Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px;" type="cite">
<div dir="ltr">
"My 17-year-old daughter was diagnosed at 14 with TMJ involvement, and Dr. Cron is her pediatric rheumatologist. She has had three aristospan (steroid) injections in her left side, and one aristospan injection in her right side. The injections helped, but the pain, inflammation and deterioration always return at some point.<br />
<br />
Dr. Cron sent us to Dr. Waite for Remicade injections after my daughter's last MRI. Because my daughter has had several friends who had negative results from Remicade injections, she told Dr. Waite that she was not comfortable with that option at this time. Dr. Waite understood, and in fact, said he wouldn't suggest Remicade injections just yet because she is able to eat and the pain in her jaw is manageable. He recommended not doing anything at all until she has significant pain and/or is unable to open and close her jaw. When she gets to that point, he said he would do a procedure to "clean out" the joint, which he has found to be helpful in a lot of patients. He told her that she has several options besides Remicade, and that he is willing to work through those options with her.<br />
<br />
I see that you mentioned that the latest results of this procedure do not match the positive/potential beneficial outcomes that were portrayed in 2013. It is my understanding that injecting Remicade into the TMJ began as an experimental treatment, and as such, the long-term effects of this treatment were unknown. Of course, every patient is different, and every patient reacts differently to medications, so some people have had positive results, while some have had negative results. If you have any doubts at all about the Remicade injections, I would suggest that you discuss them with Dr. Waite. He is very open-minded and willing to listen to your concerns and answer your questions."</div>
</blockquote>
<br />
<br />hopeforsavannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04467864938336814241noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3329030199907588064.post-85714695535532435452015-08-17T11:15:00.000-05:002015-08-19T12:38:08.137-05:00FEAR FACTOR<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Mo2rnva3VLw/VdID3aJmUrI/AAAAAAAAAhw/_5pWLmsXG20/s1600/DSC_0057.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Mo2rnva3VLw/VdID3aJmUrI/AAAAAAAAAhw/_5pWLmsXG20/s320/DSC_0057.jpg" width="320" /></a><i>"Once upon a time, there was a young girl named Savannah who LOVED to play soccer! She would play five days a week for two teams at the same time when she could. Then, a monster named J.A. (Juvenile Arthritis) came along and swiped the girl's love for soccer away by causing tremendous pain in her feet and ankles. The girl pretended it did not matter, but the girl's mother knew better. Years later, as the girl approached 7th grade, the girl pondered if she should play soccer again. But, a new monster named FEAR tormented her."</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KJXd-xep4js/VdID3OMSf9I/AAAAAAAAAiA/MCrzo7ExSYI/s1600/DSCN2845.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KJXd-xep4js/VdID3OMSf9I/AAAAAAAAAiA/MCrzo7ExSYI/s200/DSCN2845.jpg" width="150" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
Yes, Savannah has started the 7th grade and she loves school! Her pain is still well managed with Sulfasalazine. It has not taken away all the daily pain...but enough. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aq4RLGEeOUY/VdID1UjNajI/AAAAAAAAAhg/c98tyWaXfHM/s1600/DSC02364.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aq4RLGEeOUY/VdID1UjNajI/AAAAAAAAAhg/c98tyWaXfHM/s200/DSC02364.jpg" width="150" /></a><br />
<br />
FEAR is Savannah's greatest enemy right now. After awakening in the morning, I have pushed Savannah from her bed, to the bathroom, then the couch in a rolling desk chair for going on five years. I encourage her to get up and walk, but she is FEARful her feet will hurt too badly (morning stiffness) like they did years ago before her diagnosis and medicine.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Savannah has the chance to try out for her school soccer team this year, but FEAR is calling her name...just like it does each morning when she wakes up.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8E-Ng0JfK18/VdID3lSnO6I/AAAAAAAAAh4/lPlPmAZA_-8/s1600/DSCN2855.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">I ask you to pray Savannah can BEAT THE FEAR!! </a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8E-Ng0JfK18/VdID3lSnO6I/AAAAAAAAAh4/lPlPmAZA_-8/s1600/DSCN2855.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> Anyone else dealing with the fear factor?? If so, you are not alone.</a></div>
hopeforsavannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04467864938336814241noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3329030199907588064.post-7135949273723504152014-12-18T07:37:00.001-06:002014-12-19T10:08:51.800-06:00Update on Life with JIA<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-te_x_cNB7YQ/VJLXQ6TVJgI/AAAAAAAAAf8/8nC6qSMRGUk/s1600/DSCN2320.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-te_x_cNB7YQ/VJLXQ6TVJgI/AAAAAAAAAf8/8nC6qSMRGUk/s1600/DSCN2320.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I haven't posted in several months, so I decided to post an update on Savannah. Over all, life is good...yes, it is really good! The sulfasalazine seems to be the wonder drug for Savannah. They have increased her dose to the max for her weight, and though she is not pain free, the pain is very manageable. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JpOLzOJ208s/VJLXPveTbDI/AAAAAAAAAf0/IPZguMcXhZM/s1600/DSCN2324.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JpOLzOJ208s/VJLXPveTbDI/AAAAAAAAAf0/IPZguMcXhZM/s1600/DSCN2324.JPG" height="185" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
You change up dreams on this Juvenile Arthritis journey, and that is okay. Savannah once wanted to be a soccer star, but she now sings in her middle school chorus. We are taking lemons and making lemonade! I do not know what is in store in Savannah's life, I just know each day is a gift and we have to make the most of it.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Lastly, Savannah, her father, and I all walked/ran in the Jingle Bell Run for arthritis this month....and Savannah did not use her wheelchair!! She and her father might have taken some short cuts...and Savannah might have even been carried on her father's back at points (thank goodness for a strong man), but Savannah made it! Thank you for following Savannah's journey. There is hope on this journey and we hope this blog blesses you in some way.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SdSVa1SYMNE/VJLXPBJmduI/AAAAAAAAAfs/FXHcQ-qRrQc/s1600/IMG_0179.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SdSVa1SYMNE/VJLXPBJmduI/AAAAAAAAAfs/FXHcQ-qRrQc/s1600/IMG_0179.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
Happy Holidays!!!</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
Jenny, Eric, and Savannah</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
hopeforsavannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04467864938336814241noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3329030199907588064.post-61446189472162053652014-08-15T11:25:00.001-05:002014-08-18T07:47:59.106-05:00Did you know?? Facts about this kid with Juvenile Arthritis.Small facts about Savannah (and many kids with Juvenile Arthritis)<br />
that you may not know:<br />
<br />
1. Savannah uses an electric toothbrush when her hands really hurt because it has a bigger grip and easier to use when she is hurting.<br />
<br />
2. She rarely complains, but instead quietly slips away to see the school nurse to take motrin to help alleviate pain so she can write with a pencil. The simple act of holding small items (hairbrush, pen, toothbrush, fork) is very hard for someone who has arthritis in their fingers....true for both young and old!<br />
<br />
3. First thing every morning (going on five years), Savannah is pushed in a rolling desk chair from her bed to the couch to avoid the pain of standing on her feet when she first wakes up.<br />
<br />
4. Savannah uses a rolling backpack at school (even as a middle schooler). This really helps many children with JA. (We like<i> PBteen Gear Up Rolling Backpack</i>.)<br />
<br />
5. When Savannah's hands hurt too badly to write anymore, she will tell me (mom) what to write and where to even punctuate on homework. For these moments, I am "her hands".<br />
<br />
6. Savannah's working motto: "Do the best you can at the pace you can." Savannah has been one of the last people to turn in classwork and test work in school for years. Her hands can only write so fast.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EoJHOZKVrgk/U-4x6P_7lhI/AAAAAAAAAfY/8K3N_sq_zV4/s1600/Photo%2Bon%2B2014-08-15%2Bat%2B11.13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EoJHOZKVrgk/U-4x6P_7lhI/AAAAAAAAAfY/8K3N_sq_zV4/s1600/Photo%2Bon%2B2014-08-15%2Bat%2B11.13.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Savannah's pencil grip. These make grasping the pencil less painful for her.<br />
Pencil grip seen above: <i>Ableware Foam Tubing</i><br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
hopeforsavannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04467864938336814241noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3329030199907588064.post-44817873398184088952014-05-19T11:21:00.001-05:002014-08-05T06:20:14.221-05:00Arthritic Hands Doesn't Stop His Girl!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hL1NL3ZEgRA/U3or8VLdSHI/AAAAAAAAAeo/K-D1Zntj4ao/s1600/DSCN1372.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hL1NL3ZEgRA/U3or8VLdSHI/AAAAAAAAAeo/K-D1Zntj4ao/s1600/DSCN1372.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Savannah with her school art teacher.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Savannah may have arthritis in both her hands, but she can still produce some incredible artwork! As a result of her God given talent and perseverance, Savannah won the Art Award at school today! Prayers and medicine has allowed Savannah to return to doing artwork, and we are so thankful. <br />
<br />
Thank you for praying for Savannah.<br />
<br />
<br />hopeforsavannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04467864938336814241noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3329030199907588064.post-26641095204584534632014-04-25T12:27:00.000-05:002014-04-25T12:27:55.389-05:00I feel HAPPY!<h3>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-weight: normal;"><i>"Life doesn't get to be put on pause until you can feel better</i></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-weight: normal; line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i> - time keeps ticking and dreams collect dust."</i></span></span></span></h3>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-weight: normal; line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i style="font-size: medium;"> </i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i> </i> (wise words of a JA friend)</span></span></span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-weight: normal; line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-weight: normal; line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I often tell Savannah that life here on Earth will always have struggles and problems. It is how we <i style="font-weight: normal;">deal</i> these struggles and problems that makes all the difference. Savannah still struggles with daily pain, especially in her hands and feet, but she <b>chooses to feel happy! </b> We are thankful for Sulfasalazine that Savannah takes orally twice a day, for it truly helps keep her head above water.</span></span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-weight: normal; line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-weight: normal; line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Three years ago, Savannah seemed to always be looking ahead to a time without pain. She now realizes that this day may never come...and that is okay ...because Savannah has <i>chosen </i>HAPPINESS!</span></span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-weight: normal; line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-t15LnaGGIQo/U1qZDJaoj_I/AAAAAAAAAeU/4GPDG313FS4/s1600/DSCN1305.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-t15LnaGGIQo/U1qZDJaoj_I/AAAAAAAAAeU/4GPDG313FS4/s1600/DSCN1305.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-weight: normal; line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
hopeforsavannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04467864938336814241noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3329030199907588064.post-62394281838990294312014-01-21T12:11:00.000-06:002014-01-21T12:16:23.824-06:00 Thoughts of a JIA Mom and JIA Kid<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">When I started a blog about Savannah's life with JIA (Juvenile Idipathic Arthritis) about two and a half years ago, it was because one of Savannah's teachers <i>challenged</i> me to put Savannah's journey on paper...to share the trials, her everyday journey...both, good and bad, and what has helped along this journey. I was apprehensive at first, everything was so, well, <i>negative</i>. Savannah could not walk in the mornings because the pain was so intense. I would have to carry her to the bathroom and then the sofa. I would have to brush Savannah's teeth and brush her hair because her hands hurt too badly to hold these objects. I would cry in secret when I would sneak to Savannah's school to view her at recess...only to see all of her friends running as free as the wind and playing games like tag, while she sat on the sidelines and watched or played with small rocks she found on the ground. I would try to hold back the tears as Savannah would beat her hands against her legs at night and say, "Please, make the pain go away!" Medicines, oh... so many medicines. Needles being stuck in her, missing the veins, veins collapsing due to being stuck so many times. Nausea, headaches, sleepless nights, lots of tears.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">But now, well, I still have to assist Savannah a little in the mornings, but not so much. We have found a medicine that truly helps manage the stiffness and pain, with little side effects, and that can be taken <u>orally</u>. Savannah <i>runs</i> at recess!!! At night, she still complains of hurting, but without tears. She sleeps fitfully, waking up three to four times at night to stretch because she is so stiff, but she manages sleep.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZcZn4-CRDZs/Ut63BDMeGKI/AAAAAAAAAeE/pgEd_m6y2bQ/s1600/IMG_1857.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZcZn4-CRDZs/Ut63BDMeGKI/AAAAAAAAAeE/pgEd_m6y2bQ/s1600/IMG_1857.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I am so thankful for the simple things...brushing hair, running, sleeping...things most take for granted. Savannah told me in the last few days she still hurts everyday, but she rarely complains about it. So, I too, choose not to complain! Life is good, life is wonderful! The wind is blowing, the sunlight dances amongst the leaves in the trees, the sky is blue, and life is truly beautiful! Behind every grey cloud, the sun still shines!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Savannah still wonders if she will ever know life without pain, but she chooses not to dwell on it anymore. So, today, choose to be happy, to run through the grass barefoot for no reason at all (ok, it might be too cold for that), and notice God's beauty around you. Blessings to all the people who have taken this journey with us. There is light at the end of the tunnel!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">-Jenny and Savannah</span>hopeforsavannahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04467864938336814241noreply@blogger.com4