Strike Out Arthritis: Our Philanthropy
The national philanthropy of Alpha Omicron Pi, Strike Out Arthritis, raises money for Juvenile Arthritis and Arthritis Research. It was chosen as AOII's national philanthropy because it is the nation's leading cause of disaility. Since adopting the cause in 1967, Alpha Omicron Pi has raised over $1.5 million dollars for arthritis grants and research. Though Juvenile Arthritis is the organization's national philanthropy, many chapters also support local causes.
In previous years, Kappa Rho chapter held a 5K run called "The Run for the Roses" to raise money for this cause. Beginning in the Spring of 2007, the chapter will now be holding an annual kickball tournament open to any Registered Student Organization at WMU to raise money and awareness. Kappa Rho chapter is alsoa large supporter of the local Red Cross.
About Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis
It may begin with a swollen knuckle, a spiking fever, or an unexplainable rash. But no matter what symptoms appear, hearing the word "arthritis" in a diagnosis for a child can be unexpected and confusing.
Arthritis is an inflammation of the joints that is characterized by swelling, heat and pain. Nearly 300,000 children in the United States have some form of arthritis. Arthritis can be short-term -- lasting for just a few weeks or months, then going away forever -- or it can be chronic and last for months or years. In rare cases, it can last a lifetime.
The most prevalent form of juvenile arthritis is juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, or JRA. It affects approximately 50,000 children in the United States. JRA also called juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) because it is very different from adult rheumatoid arthritis.
What Causes JRA?
It's not known exactly what causes JRA in kids. Research indicates that it is an autoimmune disease. In autoimmune diseases, white blood cells lose the ability to tell the difference between the body's own healthy cells and harmful invaders like bacteria and viruses. The immune system, which is supposed to protect the body from these harmful invaders, instead releases chemicals that can damage healthy tissues and cause inflammation and pain.
To effectively manage and minimize the effects of arthritis, anearly and accurate diagnosis is essential. By understanding the symptoms and characteristics of each type of JRA, you can help your child maintain an active, productive lifestyle.
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