10-year-old is a 'great example of resiliency'

Ivan Leonard, Albuquerque Journal, N.M.
·2 min read

Oct. 11—This week, the Arthritis Foundation is summoning local and area residents to support their goal of stopping arthritis by participating in the inaugural 2022 Walk to Cure Arthritis on Saturday, Oct. 15, at Veteran's Memorial Park in Albuquerque.

For local citizens, it is a good way to support a great cause.

"Well, it is always nice to feel this community support and have a sense of camaraderie with people who may be challenged with the same issues," said Shelly Jordan, Arthritis Foundation executive director. "So, just to see that you're not alone, and see that there are other people who love and support you and are working to improve quality of life for people."

The foundation is committed to supporting research for better treatments and a cure, along with offering tools and resources to help reduce chronic pain and improve people's lives.

This year, local 10-year-old Jocelyn Proa is being honored after battling juvenile inflammatory arthritis.

"We are excited to have her as our very first honoree," Jordan said. "She is a super sweetheart."

Jocelyn was diagnosed with JIA after showing symptoms similar to growing pains which would lead to her needing a walker to move. After further testing, rheumatologists confirmed she had JIA.

In 2021, Jocelyn began medication and has responded well to her treatment plan, and she was able to go back to her favorite hobbies.

"So she is back doing all the things she loves to do, such as karate and swimming," Jordan said. "She is just a really great example of resiliency and one of the 300,000 kids in the country that actually suffer from juvenile arthritis, which is not very well known."

Local residents can register and begin fundraising for the New Mexico Walk to Cure Arthritis, and learn more about the event by visiting walktocurearthritis.org/newmexico or by contacting Jordan at sjordan@arthritis.org.

"Arthritis is the No. 1 cause of disability in the United States, affecting nearly 60 million Americans, including 300,000 children. Together, we can make a difference for these arthritis warriors," Jordan said in a press release.

2022 Walk to Cure Arthritis

WHEN: 8:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 15

WHERE: Veteran's Memorial Park, 1100 Louisiana Blvd. SE

Registration: walktocurearthritis.org