Drawing from your experience, describe the attitude of the general public about arthritis?
Let me begin by saying, the general public is in need of further education and awareness pertaining to arthritis. I have talked to so many people who were not even aware that children get arthritis. Yet more children have juvenile arthritis than juvenile diabetes.
Arthritis in children and adults can be very serious and the general public seems to be in a "cloud" believing that arthritis is ‘JUST arthritis’. We see people (with arthritis) on television gardening and pitching baseball as if it were not a bit difficult. However, arthritis has many faces. Pain, crippling, loss of mobility, fatigue, frustration, isolation, and depression are a few. Many people are in wheelchairs, disabled by arthritis. Everyday chores become difficult and to some impossible. Being robbed of ‘normal’ function can be devastating for anyone and even more so for a young child or a teenager!
What people need to understand is that this disease in its many forms can be quite serious and in some cases even fatal. Education is a priority for me. Educate the public, the medical community, and those with arthritis need to really educate themselves about their particular type of arthritis.
When first diagnosed, I recommend calling your local Arthritis Foundation, go to your local library, or go online for further information. I believe that as the "baby-boom" generation is aging and the numbers of those affected with arthritis is due to increase, the public needs to greatly expand their knowledge.
I have heard people say "oh it is just arthritis, I do not need to go to the doctor" and this is not so. Proper medical attention can make life easier and less painful. Arthritis can come on quickly and do severe damage if not stopped. Please go to your doctor and take control of your arthritis before it takes control of you. It is up to you to help yourself!
