Give Miracles: Juvenile Arthritis - Sophia's Story

Los Angeles - People usually associate arthritis with getting older, but the affliction can also affect children. Sophia Rothman, who is only 3-year-old, was diagnosed with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis at the age of two. Her initial symptom was a swollen knee. From there her immune system attacked her wrists, elbows and ankles.

Sophia receives treatment at Childrens Hospital Los Angeles and if they gave out a "biggest charmer" award, Sophia would have to be a contender. She is almost always cheerful even when she has to take "yucky" medicine.

Treatment for Sophia includes once-a-month infusion of Remicade. Drugs in its class work by blocking the body's ability to create inflammation. The price tag for drugs like Remicade is roughly 30 thousand dollars a year, but without treatment Sophia would likely be blind. Her arthritis had also attacked her eyes.

Sophia's parents feel lucky to have found treatment that allows her to lead a mostly normal life.

Doctors and nurses say patients like Sophia make their jobs all the more worthwhile.

Online:

Arthritis Foundation - Juvenille Arthritis:
arthritis.org/ja-alliance-main.php

Dr. Diane Brown, Rheumatology program at Childrens Hospital Los Angeles:
chla.org/site/pp.aspx?c=ipINKTOAJsG&b=3764355