Media Advisory - The Arthritis Society gives backpacks to kids, announces new programs to support children living with arthritis

TORONTO, March 6, 2013 /CNW/ -

What:	In recognition of March as Childhood Arthritis Month, The Arthritis Society is supporting Canada's children by announcing three new programs: a National Childhood Arthritis Advisory Committee a Backpack Program for the hundreds of children each year who are diagnosed with arthritis a Donations Program to fund research and programs targeted specifically towards addressing the challenges of childhood arthritis.
	A presentation of the new backpacks will be made to seven children aged 10 and under who are living with arthritis.
Where:	The Hospital for Sick Children
	555 University Avenue, Toronto, M5G 1X8
	Media please meet at the Info desk in the Atrium (Elizabeth St. entrance)
When:	Monday March 11th, 2013
	12:00 pm
Who:	Janet Yale - President and CEO, The Arthritis Society
	Dr. Brian Feldman - Chair, National Childhood Arthritis Advisory Committee, and Senior Scientist & Head, Division of Rheumatology, SickKids
	Aaliyah Hester - 9-year-old girl with arthritis
	Mark Trenton - parent of a child with arthritis, family advocate
Visuals:	Backpack presentations to children; photo opportunities

ABOUT THE ARTHRITIS SOCIETY
The Arthritis Society is dedicated to a vision of living well while creating a future without arthritis. It is Canada's principal health charity providing education, programs and support to 4.6 million Canadians with arthritis and their loved ones. Since its founding in 1948, The Society has been the largest non-government funder of arthritis research in Canada by investing more than $180 million in projects that have led to breakthroughs in the diagnosis, treatment and care of people with arthritis.

SOURCE: The Arthritis Society

For further information or to arrange an interview, please contact:

Douglas Emerson
[email protected]
tel: [phone] ext.3348