Kids With Arthritis Branch.
The KiWA Branch is run by a group of parents who have a child with JIA. We aim to give support and understanding to parents/carers & families who have a child with JIA.
Yes, it is a shock. How could my child have Arthritis? Isn’t arthritis for old people? There will be hundreds of questions that go through your mind. You may feel overwhelmed with all the medical jargon. These are all normal reactions. Your child will have their concerns too, as they come to terms with the changes in their life: medication, doctor’s appointments and adjusting at school.
We can help you by sharing our experiences so that you don’t feel alone. We can also put you in touch with other families so you have someone to talk to.
Together ANSW and the KiWA branch organise the following annual events:
- Camp Twinkletoes: - a weekend camp for the whole family, aimed at families with a JIA child aged under 8, held late February or early March.
- Camp Footloose:- held in October school holidays for JIA children still at school (aged 8 to 18 years).
- Family picnic day held in April during Arthritis week.
- Family Christmas party held in November.
Arthritis NSW has an Arthritis and Youth Educator who can provide advice, support, contacts and brochures full of information about JIA. There is also a Schools Guide which can help teachers (including pre-school teachers) understand JIA and learn how to make your child comfortable at school. They are also available to visit your child’s school to speak with teachers and students.
To get more information and become a member of Arthritis NSW you can visit the:
Free call to Arthritis NSW :- 1800 011 041
e-mail:- ngarland@arthritisnsw.org.au or kidswitharthritis@arthritisnsw.org.au
Phone:- 02 9857 3300 Fax:- 02 9857 3399
Mail:- Locked Bag 2216, North Ryde, NSW 1670
Kids with Arthritis Branch Secretaries:- Alex & Iain 02 4577 5074
If you would like to attend or find out more information about the picnic please contact Arthritis NSW on 1800 011 041 or email:kidswitharthritis@arthritisnsw.org.au
Camp Twinkletoes
Camp Twinkletoes is an annual weekend camp (normally held late February early March) for families with a child under 8 with JIA, or newly diagnosed children and those not confident to go to Camp Footloose alone. The camp is for the whole family to enjoy a weekend away where parents can gain skills and information to manage their child’s arthritis with confidence and to build a support network with other families in the same situation. The kids, including the siblings, have a great time enjoying a range of craft and physical activities (disguised physiotherapy and occupational therapy)
The next camp Twinkletoes is being held 26th-28th February 2010. If you would like to attend or find out more information about Camp Twinkletoes contact Arthritis NSW on 1800 011 041 or email:kidswitharthritis@arthritisnsw.org.au
Please click here to view the Camp Twinkletoes Information Flyer for 2010
|
