Meet our 2009 Junior Honoree!

Bailey Warren

Bailey is a happy, fun loving, typical 4 year old little girl. However, her journey over the last 2 years has been anything from "typical" for a child her age. When she was 2 years old, Bailey woke up one morning with a swollen knee and would not walk on it.  Her mother took her to the pediatrician, where they did blood work. They were told several things it could be and were sent to an Orthopaedic specialist.  They drew fluid from Bailey's knee and were sent to Children's Hospital for knee surgery and a 3 day stay.  After 3 days of wondering what on earth it could be - they found out- Bailey had JRA or Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis. Bailey was also diagnosed with a form of arthritis that affects her eyes, called Uveitis.

Since being diagnosed, Bailey has been on a roller coaster ride of strong medicines and infusions, a ride that no child should ever have to take.   Bailey's mother, Kim Warren, was fearful of the strong medications, but has realized in the past month that Bailey has not complained of pain in her feet & legs for months! Bailey's family is excited to be a part of the Arthritis Walk and encourage others to join a team and raise funds for research.

"The last 2 years have been rocky, scary & depressing for us", said Kim. "But, I can't imagine how many years we would still be suffering with Bailey hurting if it were not for these great doctors, medicines and the Arthritis Foundation helping us!"

 VIEW BAILEY'S SLIDESHOW!