Last July, I had the absolute JOY of attending the Arthritis Foundation’s KAT FISH family camp in Washington State.

There is something truly magical about getting the entire families together, from the children living with juvenile arthritis and related conditions to their siblings, parental figures and even grandparents. 

We had ample time for the adults and kids alike to connect with others who “get it,” and had stellar educational sessions from doctors, patient advocates and of course occupational therapists (including me!). 

Highlights included:

  • Karaoke (for kids *and* a special “adults only” karaoke night!)
  • Talent Show (featuring more singing plus dances, skits, magic shows and more)
  • Bracelet Making and therapeutic arts
  • Time outdoors in the beautiful pacific northwest 
  • Special camp activities including zip line, climbing wall, swimming, archery and more! 

Here are just a few of my favorite pictures and videos from the weekend. This was my eighth year volunteering in the last 15 years and it’s absolutely mind blowing to see the families grow over time. One of the campers I first met as a middle schooler in 2012 now has her MASTERS in Occupational Therapy and is the volunteer lead for the event – way to go, Izzy! 

I’m so grateful to the AF staff and my fellow volunteers who have come together for over 20 years to make this camp happen. Learn more about juvenile arthritis camps near you here: https://www.arthritis.org/events/ja-camps

#ArthritisCamp #JuvenileIdiopathicArthritis #JIA #KidsGetArthritisToo #FamilyCamp 

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