Park Midway Bank walks to fight Juvenile Arthritis

Less than two years ago, 15-year-old Megan Johnston received news that would change her life and the lives of her family, forever; she was diagnosed with polyarticular juvenile arthritis. Now, Megan and her family are affected by her diagnosis in some way each day. Megan lives with constant pain, but she doesn't let her arthritis stop her from living life. "Sometimes it's hard to keep up with my friends. I don't always get to do the same things they do. I have to make choices about what I want to accomplish," Megan said.

The Johnstons found support through the Arthritis Foundation. They attend Juvenile Family Network Meetings (JAFN) regularly and this year Megan was able to attend Camp M.A.S.H. She met other teens living with arthritis and formed lifelong friendships while learning more about her disease. The Johnstons also formed a team for the Arthritis Foundation annual fundraising walk, the Juvenile Arthritis March (JAM). JAM is a family-friendly event held at Mall of America featuring kids' activities. JAM raises money to fund program and find a cure while raising awareness that kids get arthritis too.

This year, Park Midway Bank will again be forming a team. If you would like to join us, it's easy to register. Go to: http://jam2009.kintera.org and join the Park Midway team or call 651-644-4108.