'The hardest thing I’ve ever faced'- Lancashire teen shines light on hidden childhood arthritis

Maisie, 16, from Morecambe was diagnosed with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) at just four-year-old, shortly before starting primary school.

As a child, she often had to be carried by her parents or struggled to walk due to pain in her knees and ankles.

Today, she manages her condition with regular medication and self-injections every two weeks.

Now Maisie is sharing her story to highlight the realities of living with JIA, an autoimmune condition affecting around 1 in 1,600 children in the UK.

Often described as an invisible illness, many young people can appear healthy while coping with joint pain, stiffness and fatigue.

“Living with JIA has been the hardest thing I’ve ever faced,” Maisie said.

“It’s so much more than painful joints. It’s the hospital appointments, tests and treatments that happen behind the scenes. Because it’s invisible, it can feel very isolating. That’s why raising awareness is so important.”

The charity Juvenile Arthritis Research supports families affected by the condition and runs a national awareness campaign each March.

Last year, it supported more than 400 families and reached thousands more across the UK. Through donations, the charity provides a ‘Little Box of Hope’ to children with JIA, offering information and support.

“Receiving a Little Box of Hope from Juvenile Arthritis Research was so lovely,” said Maisie. “It made me feel less alone and really brightened my day.”

Despite the challenges, Maisie is determined not to let JIA define her. A passionate dancer, she trains up to four times a week, performs in shows and has earned multiple exam awards.

“I’ve never let this condition stop me,” she said. “I’ve done everything I’ve wanted to do. Dance has helped me through the hardest times and I never let arthritis take that away from me.”

Rebecca Beesley, co-founder of Juvenile Arthritis Research, praised Maisie for speaking out.

“Maisie is incredible, helping other children and families feel less alone,” she said. “With community support and donations, we can fund vital research and ensure every child with JIA has the chance to thrive.

“Too many families are told their child’s pain is just growing pains but delays in diagnosis can lead to lasting joint damage or even loss of vision.

"If your child suddenly struggles to walk, write, or do something they could before, don’t ignore it. Speak to your GP and ask them to think JIA.”

For more information about Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis and support available, visit the Juvenile Arthritis Research website.