Telling it Like It Is

Growing up with a disease differs from being diagnosed with one later in life. I know because I was diagnosed with JIA when I was a child. I also know that with an increase in outreach programs for transitioning patients more teens like me will succeed and flourish in the next stages of their lives.

It’s hard to remember when I didn’t have some back problems. I had done some heavy manual labour as a teenager so when, age 35, and 15 years after joining the police force I found myself with regular back pain and stiffness, I simply attributed it to pushing my back too hard early on. But it never got better.

On Saturday, November 8, 2008 Jean Légaré received an honourary doctorate from Laval University. He has graciously provided CAPA with a copy of the speech he delivered to the honoured guests who assembled to witness the bestowing of the honour.

Persons living with arthritis in Quebec received sad news this August. Mr. Andy Chabot, Executive Director of the Quebec Division of The Arthritis Society submitted his letter of resignation.

Most of us operate in the belief that patient empowerment is a good and necessary thing. We feel good when we’re in control. But do we make better progress in staying healthy or recovering from surgery or illness if we have a sense of empowerment?

Nicole St-Laurent-Ward credits her family, a broad range of medical professionals, a solid support system and planning ahead to her success in managing Fibromyalgia.

Don Fletcher's glimpse into the convoluted structure of the Canadian drug plan system began when his doctor gave him samples of a new drug called Lyrica - a drug that relieved the symptoms of his Fibromyalgia. "It worked so well that after three days on the medication I felt better than I had in years." Read Don's tale of frustration navigating the drug plan systems.

Anne Riddick has lived with Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) for nearly 50 years. Over the years she has discovered certain truths and gathered a few pearls of wisdom.

Shelly Leavitt was determined not to let herself become a victim or prisoner of her disease. Her persistance resulted in phone calls from members of parliament and a letter from Health Minister Tony Clement.

The transportation and hospitality industries need to consider their markets when they are projecting growth and market share. They need to keep and attract customers to generate profit. That means listening to us.