Congress Wants to Hear from You!

You can make a positive difference today!

During the month of August, many Members of Congress return to their home districts and states for the district work period. Your Representative and Senators may be holding public town hall meetings or other public events during the month as they want and need to hear from you, their constituents. This is your chance to express your views on health care reform and to share the Arthritis Foundation's principles for health care reform. It is very important for Congress to understand why people with arthritis want health care reform.

I strongly encourage you to attend a town hall meeting in your area. Contact your local Arthritis Foundation Chapter and ask to speak with the staff person who handles advocacy. He/she will be able to give you more information about local town hall meetings, and can connect you with other advocates who plan on attending. Local Chapter Map

WebMD Show Now Live!

Progress report! I am happy to give everyone a quick update about the New York filming for the segment on RA - Rheumatoid Arthritis produced by WebMD called "RA in Focus" that took place at the first of the year. I am very grateful to serve as a spokesperson for the Arthritis Foundation and most especially, as a board member of the Georgia Chapter's Young Professionals Group. The segment is now available to view by clicking here or inserting this link into your Web browser:

http://www.webmd.com/rheumatoid-arthritis/ra-tv?catId=12&vidId=091e9c5e802ebb0f

The show is a new series dedicated to providing real life stories, the latest medical advancements and information about people of all ages touched by arthritis. Check it out and visit the other resources available...it's a wealth of information at your fingertips!

FDA Advisers Urge Smaller Doses of Acetaminophen

On June 30, a U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) panel recommended greater regulation of acetaminophen to reduce deadly overdoses and liver injury. Recommendations that affect people with arthritis include switching the 1,000 milligram dose to prescription status; limiting the maximum single dose of the drug to 650 milligrams; and lowering the maximum daily dose; eliminating prescription painkillers that combine acetaminophen with strong narcotics; and stronger labeling.

The Arthritis Foundation supports the recommendations of the panel, which help to reduce the risks of serious adverse effects from acetaminophen, and applauds the FDA for the prompt action. “Acetaminophen is an important drug which helps to alleviate the daily impact and pain of arthritis for millions of Americans. We believe that people with arthritis must be made aware of potential side effects of drugs so they can decide about the level of risk they are willing to accept. The recommendation to reduce the maximum dose of acetaminophen will help to make this a safer drug for people with arthritis,” said John H. Klippel, M.D., president and CEO of the Arthritis Foundation.

The continued concern over safety of arthritis pain relievers underscores the tremendous impact of arthritis on the nation, and the need for ongoing research for development of new medications, treatments and understanding of the disease. The Arthritis Foundation recommends patients discuss concerns with their physicians and stresses the importance of weight control and exercise, drug therapy and surgical options for the management of pain and functional limitations caused by arthritis.

Matt Boyd Photography Client wins Overall Photogenic at Miss Georgia Pageant!

Congratulations to Emily Cook, the new Miss Georgia 2009! And Brianna Godshalk, Miss Georgia's Outstanding Teen 2009! Matt and I are so happy and proud of you! We will be cheering you both on for Miss America and Miss America's Outstanding Teen! Congrats to all contestants. Also congratulations to Kristen Little, Miss Georgia State University, who won the OVERALL PHOTOGENIC AWARD! We are thrilled that you chose us to do your pageant photos! Thanks Kristen!

All pageant headshots by Matt Boyd Photography
Hair and makeup by Meredith Boyd of Mere Cosmetics

Contact the FDA Today

The Arthritis Foundation has been advocating for many years for the creation of a juvenile arthritis registry. A JA registry would improve the care children with arthritis receive. It would help pediatric rheumatologists make better decisions about the type of medications our children need and it could serve as an early warning system if there are unintended side effects or outcomes of JA therapies. The Arthritis Foundation testified last month at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommending that such a registry be established: http://www.arthritis.org/murphy.php

Now it is your chance to let the FDA know we want them to continue their commendable work in this area and make our dream a reality - the creation of a fully funded JA registry that would help our kids! Please personalize your letter with your individual story and feel free to include some or the entire letter which can be downloaded here.

Please submit your comments either by regular mail or email by July 14th to: Division of Dockets Management(HFA-305), Food and Drug Administration5630 Fishers Lane, rm. 1061 Rockville, MD 20852

Or Submit electronic comments to http://www.regulations.gov/fdmspublic/component/main?main=SubmitComment&o=09000064809306d1
All comments should be identified with: Docket No. FDA-2009-N-0145

SIRIUS XM "Doctor Radio" - Tune In Monday!

Channel: Doctor Radio Sirius 114 and XM 119

Program: The Orthopedics Show

Live Air Date: Monday, June 15th at 6 p.m. EST

Hosts: Dr. Ramesh Gidumal and Dr. Nader Paksima

Tune in next Tuesday for Sirius Satellite Radio XM's Doctor Radio's "The Orthopedics Show" where I will be a guest speaker about juvenile arthritis and orthopedics. Join hosts Dr. Nader Paksima and Dr. Ramesh Gidumal for in-depth looks at arthritis and other related orthopedic issues like ligament strains and meniscus tears that happen in everyday life, plus take a look at dangerous pre-existing conditions and the latest treatment options. From bones, muscles and joints to congenital conditions, nothing is too complicated for Drs. Paksima and Gidumal to tackle! Hear medical terms and procedures explained in everyday language, and call world class doctors directly with your medical questions.

Contact Your Members of Congress About Health Care Reform Today!

Health care reform now for people with arthritis! Today, fellow advocates, including my friend and Young Professionals Board member Aimee Busquet, stormed Capitol Hill to let Congress know people with arthritis need health care reform. There are 45 million Americans without insurance, millions who are underinsured, and the rising trend that paying for health care is contributing to upwards of half of all bankruptcies in the U.S.

Congress has been working on legislation to reform the health care system over this past year. Starting this week, Congress is planning to discuss this legislation in committees and it will eventually reach the Senate and House floor.

It is very important that you tell your Members of Congress about the unique health care needs of people with arthritis. If you are currently experiencing challenges accessing or paying for health care, please tell Congress your story. If you don't tell them about the problem, Congress can't include a solution in the legislation.

Click "Take Action" to write your Members of Congress and let them know we need health care reform NOW!

Arthritis Awareness in Action!

Check out AOL's homepage, http://www.aol.com/ and view the health section about arthritis. There's helpful information about how to cope and manage the challenges of this disease...my mission is to bring about awareness of the disease and the Arthritis Foundation as a resource to all ages and dispel the myths that arthritis is just an old person's disease, increase needed funding and insprire others to make a difference to those in pain, especially children!

Featured Panelist for UCB Conference

This morning at the Atlanta Marriott Marquis in downtown Atlanta, UCB, a biopharmaceutical research company for immunology disorders had its annual sales conference. A panel of Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) patients was invited to speak and inspire, motivate and connect UCB's international sales team with real people who have unique experiences to share. Each RA patient is different, yet listening to each was very moving...there wasn't a dry eye in the ballroom! I am so grateful to have met such strong and courageous friends during my advocacy journey, together we make a difference!

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Cimzia, for the treatment of adult patients with moderately to severely active rheumatoid arthritis (RA)! This is a major milestone in technology to help cure rheumatoid arthritis. Congrats to everyone at UCB, you are all making a difference in the lives of others!

Paying Tribute to Fallen Heroes

(Before the ceremony with my Hero and love of my life, Lt. Matt Boyd!)
(The riderless horse carried a pair of boots of a fallen officer)
(Lt. Matt Boyd on far right saluting fallen officers in Cobb County)

(After the very emotional ceremony with Attorney General Thurbert Baker)

Tonight was the fifth annual Police Memorial Service, about 300 people gathered on the Marietta Square to pay tribute to all of Cobb County's 13 fallen public safety officials. Family members and police placed roses in a wreath to honor the men and women who hailed from county, municipal and university precincts. A white dove was released at the calling of each officer's name. "Amazing Grace" was preformed on bagpipes and a 21-gun salute helped conclude the ceremony. Police motorcycles and cruisers wrapped around the Square and officers turned on their blue lights at the close of the memorial. Officers that died either in the line of duty or accidentally were honored.

"There is no greater responsibility we can give a group then to protect our public safety. Most of us spend a lifetime trying to answer what our purpose is here on God's Earth. I dare say these men and women here today and those that have come and unfortunately those who have gone before us never had a question in mind what their purpose in life was to be. They chose to put on the badge. They chose to put on the uniform and they chose to be public servants. Because of that decision, this county and this state is one of the best places in America," said Georgia

Attorney General Thurbert Baker.

"The memorial service is very important because it honors and remembers the men and women who work for the county, cities and universities who have lost their lives. It is an opportunity for everyone to remember those who dedicated their lives to keeping the community safe, and those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice," Cobb Police Chief G.B. Hatfield.

I am blessed, honored and grateful to be Mrs. Matt Boyd. Being married to my hero is the best gift from God in the entire world. I am so proud of you and thankful that you not only chose me to be your wife, but also put your life on the line everyday for our community. I LOVE YOU!

Arthritis Act Introduced in Senate!

Contact Your Senators Today!
On May 6, U.S. Senators Barbara Boxer (D-CA), Kit Bond (R-MO), and Ted Kennedy (D-MA) introduced the Arthritis Prevention, Control, and Cure Act of 2009 (S. 984). The bill expands efforts to prevent, treat, and care for people with arthritis through:

*Enhancing prevention efforts related to arthritis;
*Expanding and strengthening research programs relating to juvenile arthritis;
*Establishing a juvenile arthritis population database to track our kids and monitor their treatments;
*Enhancing support for physician training programs; and
*Establishing a loan repayment program for pediatric rheumatologists to address the country's severe shortage of these critical health professionals.
We need your help to advocate for passage of the Arthritis Act and to address the needs of 46 million adults and 300,000 children with arthritis, the nation's most common cause of disability. Together we can fight the pain and disability of arthritis and make 2009 the year the U.S. Congress takes final action and passes this important legislation. Please contact your Members of Congress now and ask them to cosponsor H.R. 1210/S. 984.

Raising $250,000 for Arthritis!

Today, we helped raise over $250,000 for the Georgia Chapter, Arthritis Foundation! Held today at Atlantic Station, The Arthritis Walk® is the Arthritis Foundation’s annual nationwide signature event that raises funds and awareness to fight arthritis, the nation’s most common cause of disability. Participants walk in honor of a friend or family member with arthritis. People with arthritis wear blue hats to signify their action in taking control of their condition. The event features a three-mile and one-mile course, with arthritis information and activities for the entire family. Pet's get arthritis too! So pet owners were invited to bring their dogs along for the walk. This year's walk promoted the Let’s Move Together movement, a nationwide effort that encourages people to move to prevent or treat arthritis. Thank you to all of my friends and family who supported the walk and donated!

Georgia Chapter, Arthritis Foundation Young Professionals Board

Stay tuned for more info on our upcoming BONE BASH EVENT!
With four-time heavy weight boxing champion of the world, Evander Holyfield

With Aimee Busquet and Heidi Mcintyre

With a new friend who was so excited to meet Rocky!

With Advocate and Councilman of Georgia Jerry Barnes

At the AF Advocacy booth

Congrats to Rocky, who won "Best Original Costume" in the Arthritis Walk's Dog Costume contest!

Arthritis Today Magazine Cover Story

(Click on cover above to see the entire issue)

I am beyond blessed, humbled and honored to be on the cover of Arthritis Today magazine, the leading national consumer health magazine published by the Arthritis Foundation to help people with arthritis take control of their lives and their health. Thank you to all the incredible individuals on staff at Arthritis Today and Arthritis Foundation who made this dream a reality. Thank you for tirelessly giving so much for the 46 million living with this disease. I am forever grateful for your professionalism, support and kindness!

Meredith Boyd: More Than a Beauty Queen
Mrs. Georgia International 2008 has a passion for helping kids with JA. She tells them, “I feel like you do”
By Laura Pulfer

On casual Fridays, Meredith Boyd wears flat shoes to the office. “Girly ones” made of black patent leather with gold buckles. She loves the excuse to slip on flats because, frankly, sometimes her feet hurt – a lot.
Public relations executive, beauty queen, ventriloquist, “gymnast wannabe” and thoroughly positive person, Meredith has been walking a proverbial tightrope for more than half her life. When she was 15 years old, she swung her legs out of bed one morning and couldn’t stand up. “I was terrified,” she says.
For the next six months, a string of doctors looked for a diagnosis. She was alternately scared, discouraged, optimistic and frustrated. Relief that a diagnosis finally had been made was short-lived after she learned what juvenile arthritis really meant.
“I was mortified by some of the medical procedures,” she says. When she went to school in a leg brace, she endured the whispers: “Is she crippled? Arthritis? My grandmother has that.” Those were tough times, she says, but, “I just had to develop a thicker skin.”
At age 34, she’s a few years shy of her 20th high school class reunion, and she wouldn’t mind showing up so her classmates could see how she turned out.
An executive for an Atlanta public relations firm, Meredith also owns her own cosmetics company, does commercial modeling (you may recognize her from Lysol and Spray ’n Wash TV commercials) and mentors a group of high school girls.
As a little girl she wanted to be Mary Lou Retton. When she learned she didn’t have the knees and wrists for it, she decided to be a TV reporter. Along the way, she picked up scholarship money on the beauty pageant circuit. After college, she covered the news for a local Georgia TV station, but her fragile wrists and arms were no match for 50-pound cameras. So, she used what she learned backstage at the pageants to become a makeup artist, developed her own line of cosmetics and turned to marketing and public relations.
If your body isn’t flexible, she says, your attitude can be. “I try not to waste time worrying about what my life would have been without arthritis. Sometimes I think [my life] might not have been as good. Maybe I couldn’t have felt as useful,” she confides.
Crowned Mrs. Georgia International 2008, she chose arthritis awareness as her platform and is a spokesperson for the Arthritis Foundation. “Helping other people takes you out of your own funk. It’s pure medicine,” she says.
When Meredith speaks to an audience of children with arthritis, she brings Suzy along. Three-and-a-half feet tall, with corkscrew blond curls and blue eyes, Suzy is a ventriloquist’s doll. The voice of the Arthritis Foundation sometimes comes out of Suzy’s painted mouth. Meredith, who taught herself ventriloquism with a course she bought on the Internet, says kids will often ask Suzy things they might not ask Suzy’s glamorous friend, “Mere.”
Of course, Mere is a real person who starts the day every month or two with pain roaring through her body. “I don’t have any magic formula,” she says. “I just try to push through it.” Despite unpredictable flares, she is a dependably eloquent advocate for people with arthritis and an indefatigable fundraiser.
Meredith and her husband, Matt, have partied at the Arthritis Foundation’s galas (including the Halloween Bone Bash and Crystal Ball) and marched along at more than one Arthritis Walk. During the past year, she has been keynote speaker at the Juvenile Arthritis Family Education Day and the Arthritis Foundation Golf Classic, worked on the Foundation’s annual television campaign and served on the board of the Georgia Chapter of the Arthritis Foundation’s Young Professionals. On her blog she regularly urges readers to lobby lawmakers for arthritis support, cheer on fundraisers, and share health and beauty tips.
“When I say to a child with arthritis, ‘I know how you feel,’ they know I really do. I wouldn’t give that up.” Knowing what life can be – even with a chronic condition – is what propels this champion for arthritis to persevere.

Help me FIGHT Arthritis!!!

(Click here to donate!)

Matt, Rocky and I will be participating in the Arthritis Walk again this year. I have walked in the last few years and had wonderful experiences!

Arthritis is a serious and sometimes deadly disease. Today, 1 in 5 people suffer from the pain of arthritis. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) projects that by the year 2030, 67 million people in the U.S. or 1 in 4 adults, will live with arthritis.

New this year, the Arthritis Foundation has created a national movement called Let's Move Together that encourages people to move to prevent or treat arthritis. You can help me join the movement by committing to donate to the 2009 Arthritis Walk. Together, we can help accomplish the Arthritis Foundation's vision for a world free from arthritis pain.

Just click the logo above or below to go to my personal fundraising web page and donate online. You will immediately receive an email confirmation that you can print out for tax purposes. Thank you for your support! All donations are tax deductible!

Image Seminar at Miss Georgia Forum!

What a wonderful day to spend in Columbus, Georgia visiting with all the contestants for the 2009 Miss Georgia and Miss Georgia's Outstanding Teen Pageants! As the founder of pageant makeup line Mere Cosmetics, I am honored to have shared a presentation for both groups of young ladies at the 2009 Miss Georgia Forum Weekend focusing on image creation. Today's modern image for Miss America contestants have changed and Miss America is better than ever! Today's "it girl" is on top of the latest styles for pageant makeup, hair and wardrobe. Ladies, it was wonderful meeting all of you! Keep in touch and good luck in June!

Arthritis Today Magazine Cover Shoot

Here's a sneak peek on the cover photo shoot that will be the May/June issue of Arthritis Today Magazine! I am humbled, honored and so excited to be on the cover! The AT team was absolutely amazing: Susan, Kevin, Stephen and Jabe, you all made this the most wonderful experience of a lifetime, you are ALL the best! Arthritis Today is a national consumer health magazine published by the Arthritis Foundation to help people with arthritis take control of their lives and their health.

Arthritis Today’s mission is to give readers the information, resources and inspiration they need to live better with arthritis. Research has shown clearly that people with chronic illness can measurably improve their health through self-education and self-help. Arthritis Today gives readers the tools to do just that. Check it out on news stands in May!

Arthritis Bill Moving in Congress!

NEWS FLASH! Arthritis Bill Moving in Congress
Good news! The Arthritis Prevention, Control and Cure Act of 2009 (HR 1210), just introduced this week, will be considered by the House Energy and Commerce Committee on Wednesday, March 4 at 10AM. This "committee mark-up" is a critical step towards moving the legislation to the House floor for passage. Thanks to your hard work building support for this legislation and letting Congress know more needs to be done for adults and children with arthritis. We need to continue to show support for this legislation - your communication to Congress makes a difference - keep up the good work!

NEWS FLASH! Arthritis Bill Introduced!

Today, U.S. Representatives Anna Eshoo (D-CA) and Fred Upton (R-MI) and 46 original cosponsors introduced the "Arthritis Prevention Control and Cure Act of 2009." This bill introduction is the first step for Congress to understand more needs to be done for people with arthritis. The bill would expand efforts to prevent, treat, and care for people with arthritis through:
* Enhancing arthritis prevention;* Expanding and strengthening research programs relating to juvenile arthritis;* Establishing a juvenile arthritis registry; * Enhancing support for rheumatology training programs; and * Establishing a loan repayment program for pediatric rheumatologists to address the country's severe shortage of these critical specialists.

The legislation is identical to the bill unanimously passed last year by the House of Representatives. The Arthritis Foundation, with your help, will advocate for passage of the Arthritis Act and to address the needs of 46 million adults and nearly 300,000 children with arthritis. With your hard work and advocacy, 2009 will be the year the U.S. Congress takes final action and passes this important legislation.

Please thank your House Member if he/she is an original cosponsor: Click Here for the List
Make sure your voice is heard on Capitol Hill -- participate in the 2009 Virtual Summit!

WebMD NYC Filming

Happy Valentine's Day! This weekend was so exciting to be in New York and be a part of filming a new show called, "RA in Focus" (RA - Rheumatoid Arthritis) produced by WebMD. The show is a new series dedicated to providing real life stories, the latest medical advancements and information about people of all ages touched by arthritis. Hosting the show was neurologist, Dr. Sean Kennif and CEO of Heathapalooza.com. Everyone on staff was great, thank you to Alex, Nell, Maggie, Jarret and Kim for a wonderful day!

Urge Congress to Fund Arthritis Research and Prevention!

Action is Needed Now
Today, the Senate passed an $838 billion economic stimulus bill. The House passed its own $819 billion version of the bill on Jan. 28. House and Senate negotiators will meet quickly to resolve differences in the wide-ranging package of spending and tax cuts (HR 1). Congress wants to pass a final bill in both chambers and send it to President Obama before leaving for a scheduled week long recess at the end of the week.

Arthritis Prevention: The Senate removed entirely a $5.8 billion Prevention and Wellness Fund provision from its bill. The House of Representatives included $3 billion in public health funding in its version of the bill. The Arthritis Foundation urges Congress to include this important House provision to fund potential arthritis programs in the stimulus bill. Investing in arthritis prevention at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and in states across America, is not only an investment to help stimulate the economy, but also an investment in a healthier America. Arthritis is the most common cause of disability in the United States. Investing in prevention has a proven return. For every $1 invested in community level prevention, there is a savings of over $5 dollars in public and private health care expenditures within just 5 years. Support for the CDC and evidence based state and private programs to combat arthritis will help reduce disability, pain and health care costs for the millions of Americans with arthritis.

Please contact your Members of Congress NOW about arthritis research and prevention funding in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.

Arthritis Foundation Volunteer Brunch

Honoring all Arthritis Foundation Volunteers! Pictured below is members of the Young Professionals Group.

Congrats to Miss Georgia, Chasity Hardman - 1st Runner up to Miss America!

Pageant Headshot Photo by Matt Boyd Photography

Makeup and Hair by Meredith Boyd of Mere Cosmetics

Matt and I are so excited for Chasity Hardman, Miss Georgia who represented the state of Georgia so incredibly well! She placed 1st Runner up at the Miss America pageant in Las Vegas and won the coveted preliminary talent award. Chasity, we are so HONORED to have worked with you, we love you!

Matt & Meredith Boyd

New Year's Resolutions

Lysol Commerical Now Running on Nick Jr.!

Happy New Year everyone! I am so excited to share with you my latest television commercial for Lysol that is now running nationwide on Nick Jr.! Who would have thought that brushing teeth can be so much fun!

Spray N Wash Commercial also on Nick Jr.!

Below is the new Spray N Wash television commerical that is also running on Nick Jr., we had an absolute blast fingerpainting and getting paint all over the place!

New Year, Fresh Faces of Bridal Makeup

Brides & Bouquets Magazine

(Click above to read article)

Happy New Year! With every new year is a renewing of everlasting love with weddings! Check out Augusta Brides, the home of Brides & Bouquets Magazine and see how natural makeup can be accomplished on a budget. Don’t lose face! Trial runs, neutral palette will ensure flawless wedding day makeup. I am very honored to be quoted along with Celebrity makeup artist Sonia Kashuk for this article!

Wear some flair in your hair!

(Click above to read article)

Flowers spell out many ideas and emotions, from innocence and simple beauty to passion and beyond! Whether you are going for a glam look at the high school prom, a trendy, flirty look at a backyard barbeque party, or a formal and sophisticated look at your very own wedding, flowers can make all the difference. I am excited to be a part of this article among other well respected beauty industry professionals. Visit SheKnows.com, one of the top 10 most-visited websites for women, has been providing current information on topics relevant to women's lives.

Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas!

The Boyd's (Matt, Mere and Rocky!) wish you all Happy Holidays and a very Merry Christmas! As 2008 comes to a close, we are so thankful for all the wonderful blessings God has bestowed upon us this year, our family, friendships and amazing experiences. At this holiday season we remember and honor those who are no longer with us and cherish those who are. Let the spirit of love gently fill our hearts and homes and may your hearts be lifted in praise this Christmas for the wonderful gift of Jesus and the joy He brings to our lives. Have a wonderful Christmas and a Blessed 2009! Good friends are hard to find, harder to leave, and impossible to forget. With this thought, we wish you all a very Merry Christmas!

Young Professionals Board Social

The Arthritis Foundation, Georgia Chapter Young Professionals Board had a super fun social Saturday night where we enjoyed homemade dishes and started planning for the 2009 Arthritis Foundation Bone Bash event! We would love for young professionals ages 18-40'ish who reside in the Atlanta metro area (and surrounding suburbs) who have arthritis or a rheumatic disease and those who help loved ones or friends who have arthritis to join our group. For updates check out our Facebook page Arthritis Foundation Young Professionals Group - Georgia Chapter.

Mere's Miracles!

In a land far, far from Hotlanta....Fargo, North Dakota, the Arthritis Foundation Jingle Bell Run was held today and my dear friend Mrs. North Dakota International 2008, Ang Smith and her family got up at the crack of dawn, faced the torrential wind to help raise money for the 46 million people in the US with arthritis and I'm honored that they named their team "Mere's Miracles!" Their poor fingers and toes were frozen from the chilling temps but like true fighters, made it all 3.1 miles and it only took them 42 minutes despite the wind. At the end of the walk they were greeted by a great band playing Christmas carols, hot soup, rolls and of all things, ice cream...yes ice cream! The Fargo walk had 472 runners and raised $38,000 with Microsoft matching all the money earned. WOO HOO!!! THANKS ANG! You are an awesome sister queen and have a heart of GOLD!

46 Million Reasons to Inspire!

There are few therapies approved for children with juvenile arthritis and 10% to 20% do not respond to available medications. The "Faces of Arthritis" event took place on December 2nd to INSPIRE to cure by supporting the 200 to 300 researchers supported annually by the Arthritis Foundation. We watched a moving video of people living with arthritis and heard from two special people who fight arthritis everyday. My friend, Aimee Busquet (her story is on my blog in the archives) who shared her very touching story of how caregivers play an integral part in aiding those who suffer from the disease and how each time those hospital doors close to the operating room, her family is there to greet her when she comes out. It's the caregivers who give so much and anyone who cares for a loved one with any ailment knows how special this role is to the family. We also heard from a brave young boy named Zachary Jamison. He is my hero! He is 11 years old and holds his head high despite the daily adversities of arthritis, his story was to touching there wasn't a dry eye in the room! To Aimee and Zach, you are very special and thank you for being such an incredible inspiration to us all!

Reach Beyond RA Video Now Live!

(click on the graphic above and then click on the "travel" button to download video)

Reach Beyond RA is an informative and easy to navigate Web site sponsored by UCB to help people who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis to manage our daily routines like traveling, eating, exercising, social living and work! Through the great folks at UCB, I was able to be a part of a world wide video to offer everyday solutions to help with arthritis. My segment focuses on how to take the stress out of traveling! These days, I think we all can get a little help there! Just click on the graphic above and then click on the "travel" button to view the video. Other video segments have been featured at the UCB national sales convention in San Francisco this past fall and more to come in 2009. If you know of someone suffering from arthritis, please pass this link onto them. Everyday tips like these can help in a small way to managing the disease for more than 46 million Americans.

My First National TV Commercial!

America's Best Contacts & Eyeglasses - This commercial currently runs on TBS and The CW Television Network...there are three versions that air on different stations nationwide. It was an exciting experience to see how we transformed into cartoons and bobble heads!

A Time for Thanks!

(Click twice on article to read)

A time for thanks....

Chronicles 29:11-13 "Yours, O LORD, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is yours. Yours, O LORD, is the kingdom; you are exalted as head over all. Wealth and honor come from you; you are the ruler of all things. In your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all. Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name."