My gorgeous nephew, Tobyn was diagnosed with Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) and has faced many challenges already at only 3. His story started at around 11 months when he started to show signs of walking. Tobyn crawled when he was meant to

and when he did he was off like a rocket. But very quickly things changed for Tobyn, we could see he was in pain when he put weight on his knees, he stopped crawling and cried so much. Next his wrist and elbows started to hurt, meaning that even getting him dressed caused him pain. It took a long time to find out what was wrong with Tobyn, he was tested for so many scary things.

Tobyn had nearly a year of feeling better. And we hoped that that was that and he’d be ok. Unfortunately it wasn’t to be. Luckily the RVI were quick to help. He’s recently had his elbows and his knee injected with steroids under general anaesthetic, poor baby. This has given him some relief. He’s also started weekly methotrexate injections in hope of keeping things at bay.

Tobyn is spending a lot of time at hospital: monthly bloods, physio, consultant appointments and regular eye appointments - who knew that having this type of arthritis brings with it a strong possibility of sufferers having uveitis (inflammation of the uvea).

Mornings are still difficult for Tobyn, he wakes up grumpy most days, this is because he’s sore and his joints are stiff. He’s probably tired too, he wakes every night in the middle of the night crying because he has pains and needs a cuddle from his mummy or daddy.

Life isn’t all bad for Tobyn though, he’s got his three big brothers that love him and look after him when he needs it, and a lot of family and friends who spoil him, he’s lucky to have so many lovely people in his life. Tobyn despite all of his difficulties loves playing and running around with friends. He goes to nursery. He’s a happy, funny and slightly mischievous little boy and we are extremely proud of him.

Tobyn isn’t alone in this. We have seen first-hand that there are lots of children who have JIA, and some who are much worse physically than he is - it is so sad. I hope by sharing some of Tobyn’s story it’ll help you understand the difficulties and challenges children with JIA have. And if you can please donate, every little helps.

Thank you so much for reading our story.

Beckie and Dean

and Guncles Lee and Adrain who a so pleased to be supporting this cause too