Youth Advocate

2009-2010 Arthritis Foundation Feature Child Ambassador - Victoria Cox

"I remember sitting in the doctor's office when they told us that she had JRA. I told them that 'only older people get arthritis.' I was wrong," Tricia Cox, Victoria's mother said. "That was the day that we started learning everything we could about arthritis."

The Central Ohio Arthritis Foundation is proud to announce the 2009-2010 Feature Child Ambassador, Victoria Cox. Victoria was diagnosed with Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis at the age of two. The first sign that something was wrong was the swelling in her right knee. She would not walk or climb up the steps. She was not sleeping well at night either. She would wake up crying but could not communicate where her pain was. After six weeks of pain and swelling, a lab test confirmed something that we never expected. Our little girl had Polyarticular Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Since she was diagnosed at such a young age, Victoria really has never known a day without pain. She currently treats with a low dose of methotrexate and an injectable medication called Enbrel. Victoria is very involved in her treatment. At first, it was difficult to give her the injections, but after she realized how much better she felt, she started to tell us when it was time for another injection.

Despite having JRA, Victoria is a very determined young lady. She started taking gymnastic classes to help with stretching and strengthen her muscles. She spends approximately 20 hours a week at the gym, keeping fit and stretching her muscles. This is a fun way for her to get the physical therapy that she needs. She has been competing as a USAG athlete for the past 5 years. Victoria earned the Level 5 State of Ohio 1st place All Around Championship title in 2006.

Victoria has a very positive outlook on life and arthritis. She believes that if you want to do something, all you need to do is believe in yourself and you can make it happen. She is looking forward to being the Arthritis Featured Ambassador to let others know that "Kids Get Arthritis Too". Someday there may be a cure, but for now, Victoria is going to enjoy just being a kid, (with arthritis).

Victoria is 11 years old and is a 6th grader at Patrick Henry Middle School. She is the daughter of Tricia and Casey Cox and resides in Hamler, Ohio with her parents and her younger sister Alexandria.