The annual Jingle Bell Walk/Run for Arthritis will take place on Saturday, December 17, in Orlando, and this year a Central Florida girl with arthritis, a condition most people think of as only affecting the older population, will be honored at the event.
Little Carolina was just 16 months old when symptoms of what would later be diagnosed as Juvenile Arthritis began. While most toddlers are learning to walk, Carolina started limping and would cry through the night because of the pain. Her parents, Karina and Daniel Ribeiro, first noticed an abrupt change when Carolina began waking in tears. Karina received concerned calls from the babysitter, indicating that the normally active child was sitting stationary on the floor for hours. Carolina’s condition worsened rapidly.
Karina and Daniel searched for answers. Carolina’s blood indicated inflammation levels nearly four times that of a healthy child. She had excessive fluid on her knees. After several months of unsuccessful doctor visits, Carolina was referred to a pediatric rheumatologist.
There were only two very distant doctors in their health network, each with a six month waiting list. But with the help of an involved practitioner, a pediatric rheumatologist saw Carolina within a few weeks. She was diagnosed with Juvenile Arthritis and treatment began.
Today she is a happy, active three year old thanks to the Arthritis Foundation and a very special pediatric rheumatologist who treated the little girl.
Carolina has been named honoree for the 2011 Jingle Bell 5K Run/Walk. The Arthritis Foundation has played a major role in Carolina’s journey to wellness, and the family is honored to give back. Come on out and support them!
Juvenile Arthritis is one of the most common childhood diseases in the U.S.
