Richard

 

As a baby, Richard was diagnosed with Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis (JRA). Now at 13, he's often sore and in pain, and receives regular steroid injections. Richard is also monitored closely by additional specialists at Phoenix Children's for health issues related to the arthritis, which has also affected his growth.

 

Although Richard gets tired of all of the doctor appointments, he doesn't let his situation get him down. Instead, he wants to help other kids diagnosed with diseases like his, including two friends who were diagnosed with leukemia. Below, Richard tells us more about himself.

 

How has JRA affected your life?

It's hard sometimes because I can't do as much as I like. It's harder for me to write … a lot of things that have to do with school. If I'm sore then I can't walk very far.

 

What are some things you like to do?

I like to play video games. One of my favorite things to do is go shopping. I like just hanging out at the mall, jewelry, clothes, shoes. I like to build model cars and model motorcycles … put stuff like that together.

 

What's the hardest part about having JRA?

When I have to get the steroid injections. I've had to do steroid injections in the tips of my fingers, knuckles, both wrists, both elbows, both ankles and feet. That was pretty bad.

 

Do you get tired of going to the doctor?

Yes! My mom will say I have another doctor's appointment, and I'll say, "Another one?" I can't stand labs. I don't like needles. I'll never get used to them.

 

What's your favorite type of music?

I like R&B, hip hop, rap, and a little bit of old school. I like LL Cool J, Lil' Bow Wow and Snoop Dogg.

 

Your favorite food?

I like food a lot. It used to be tacos, but now I've changed to Chinese food. I think I just ate tacos too much. I like seasoning. I season everything and try new ones. I like spicy foods, and I like to cook.

 

What inspires you?

My mom and dad. My mom helps me with all my stuff and everything I have to go through. My dad plays with me and cooks with me.

 

What do you have in common with your dad?

We both like spicy foods and we look alike.

 

And your mom?

We both like scary movies. My dad won't watch them.

 

Is there anything positive that's come out of all of this?

That I know I can always stay strong through all of it. I want to help other people [diagnosed with diseases] because I feel that whatever experiences they're going through, I've been there already, and I can help them and tell them what it's like.