From Lonely and Broken to Feeling Strong: Jen Blair’s Story of Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis

Arthritis Life

As a child and teenager growing up with juvenile idiopathic arthritis, Jen Blair often felt lonely, isolated and "broken." Fast forward to the present: Jen is a mother of three, accepts her "new normal" and has come to see herself as strong rather than broken.

This episode delves into Jen’s story and includes details about her different prescription treatments, how she came to embrace exercise and dietary contributions to her health, her pregnancy and parenting journey and her experiences both with working and being on disability.
Episode at a glance:

• Jen’s diagnosis story of juvenile idiopathic arthritis
• Jen’s treatment journey over the years: biologics, exercises, nutrition, serial casting (which is no longer done for JIA) and more
• Pregnancy with JIA & RA
• What is it like being a mom of three children while living with JIA?
• Jen’s emotional journey: as a teenager and young adult, experiences loneliness, isolation, yearning for acceptance, and feelings of being “broken.”
• Jen’s experiences working in different environments and then going on disability
• Jen’s advice for people newly diagnosed with inflammatory arthritis

Medical disclaimer:

All content found on Arthritis Life public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Episode Sponsors

Rheum to THRIVE, a community support & education program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. Join the waitlist for the next group, which starts in September 2022!

Rheumatoid Arthritis Roadmap, a self-paced online course Cheryl created that teaches you how to confidently manage your physical, social and emotional life with rheumatoid arthritis.

Full Episode Details including Transcript:

Go to www.MyArthritisLife.Net