Community Link Arthritis Foundation of Indiana INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Each week on Community Link, Carolene Mays looks at an organization or business making a positive impact on the community. This week, Mays was joined by Kjell Wangensteen, executive director of the Arthritis Foundation o f Indiana and this year’s honoree, Harper. Arthritis affects people of all ages and takes many different forms. The Arthritis Foundation of Indiana supports those living with the condition while advancing research, education, and awareness. “The major myth is that, exactly as you said, it only affects a portion of the population, and it’s usually the elderly or infirm,” Wangensteen said. “But in truth, arthritis affects almost everyone. of all ages, from childhood to adulthood.” Symptoms often include significant joint pain and stiffness, which can make daily activities like walking or climbing stairs difficult. Wangensteen recommends seeing a doctor or a specialist known as a rheumatologist to determine which manifestation of the disease a patient may have. There are approximately seven different categories of arthritis, including osteoarthritis and juvenile arthritis. Research is ongoing as the disease affects millions of people, with approximately one in six people in the United States currently living with some form of the condition. Harper was diagnosed at 8 years old and shared how the diagnosis changed her daily life. “It has impacted my life by me having pain and taking medicine that I don’t want to take shots twice a week.” Despite these challenges, Harper and her family found a vital support system through the foundation and summer camps. At these camps, she connects with other children facing similar medical journeys, allowing them to play and learn together. The foundation’s annual fundraiser, the Bone Bash, is scheduled for Sept. 26 at the 502 Event Center in Carmel. The event begins at 6:30 p.m. and features food, a silent auction, and dancing. It serves as a platform to honor advocates like Harper and share testimonials from those benefited by the foundation over the past year. Tickets are available at arthritis.org To share this story or to learn more, head to wishtv.com. ...read more read less