Pediatric Rheumatology Patient Stories

Read inspiring stories of hope from patients and families treated at Nicklaus Children's Hospital.

Have your own inspiring patient story to share? If you’d like to share your Nicklaus Children's story to inspire hope, and help other families find answers to questions they’re seeking for their child, please contact us at: info@nicklaushealth.org.

Kimberly's story (juvenile arthritis)

Kimberly won't let juvenile arthritis to stop her from dancing. At 10 years old she is an Irish dancing champion, participating in national competitions. Kimberly has been a patient at the Division of Rheumatology for eight years, treated with medications that do not contain steroids. Read this story.

Kristen's story (juvenile arthritis)

Kristen was diagnosed with juvenile arthritis at 2 years old. Despite the medications prescribed by her doctor, her arthritis kept progressing. At Nicklaus Children's Hospital she found the treatment she needed. Read this story.

Ricky's Success Story

Ricky was right in the middle of an extremely active and athletic childhood when he awoke one morning with surprising stiffness and pain in his lower legs. Under the care of the Nicklaus Children's Division of Rheumatology, Ricky began treatments with medications and regular physical therapy that helped him regain function lost as a result of his arthritic flareups. Read this story.

Rolando's Success Story

At 9 years old, Rolando was diagnosed with juvenile dermatomyositis, a rare autoimmune disorder. Since then, Rolando has been cared for by the rheumatology team at Nicklaus Children's as an inpatient and outpatient. Read this story.

Elana's Story (Churg Strauss Syndrome)

On Christmas Day 1998, Elana woke up with a fever and a rash. She couldn't move her joints. Her mother, Laura, brought her to the Nicklaus Children's Hospital where she was diagnosed with a rare and fatal disease: Churg Strauss Syndrome (CSS). Read this story.