Division of Rheumatology Patient Stories

Long-delayed AMPS diagnosis put Eleanor on a path to helping others learn about the condition and share their experiences of managing chronic pain.

Elise could barely walk due to pain and swelling from juvenile arthritis. With expert care at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, she’s now back to the sports she loves.

After Alice received care at CHOP for juvenile idiopathic arthritis, she donated care backpacks with support supplies for patients as part of an Eagle Scout project.

Amanda’s skiing injury on a family trip seemed like a sprained ankle, but it turned out to be Amplified Musculoskeletal Pain Syndrome—a tougher challenge.

When sudden, unexplained musculoskeletal pain forced Nina to step back from her favorite activities, her family turned to CHOP for answers and treatment.

When GP arrived at CHOP, he was one of the sickest systemic arthritis patients his rheumatologist had even seen. Today, GP is home and enjoying kindergarten.

After 10-year-old Abbie was diagnosed with lupus, her family became dedicated advocates for lupus research.

When Emily experienced sudden fatigue, bruises and fevers, her family turned to CHOP. Within days, she was diagnosed with lupus nephritis and began treatment.

In the midst of COVID-19, Indya began experiencing painful swelling and stiff joints – symptoms of lupus, a severe, autoimmune disease.

After a five-year journey, a new test by the Roberts Individualized Medicine Genetics Center diagnosed Sadie’s rare genetic muscle condition.