Who knows arthritis better than those who live it?

If you grew up with juvenile arthritis (JA) you'll know just what it was like. Confusing, painful, scary, annoying or just plain part of life.

Arthritis Ireland's JA Mentoring programme is an initiative where adults who have experienced living with juvenile arthritis reach out to young people now coping with the condition to provide insight and support. Becoming a Mentor allows adults to share their experiences and perspectives which not only helps children and their families to better understand the implications of their condition on their lives, but also how to overcome the challenges it presents.

Ideally, an Arthritis Ireland JA Mentor should:

• have personal experience of living with juvenile arthritis
• be committed to the philosphy of self-management
• be a good listener
• be able to maintain good communication with other young people by phone, email or in a group situation
• be sensitive to individual needs and flexible in their support

As a JA Mentor, you can get involved in many ways:

• act as a point of contact by phone or email
• participate in any of our events including the Joint Adventure Family Day, the Positive Future Workshop or the Independence Break
• act as an administrator on our Facebook page
• visit the pediatric or rheumatology clinics in your area
• represent Arthritis Ireland and its services for young people
• contribute ideas for new programmes of support