For the Observer-Reporter

newsroom@observer-reporter.com

Heather and Tony Aliano know that arthritis runs in their families, but they never imagined it could affect their 5-year-old daughter, Faith.

Faith was diagnosed with polyarticular juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, also known as JRA, when she was 31/2, after a fall on a patch of ice resulted in painful swelling in her knee and other joints. Her difficult but successful path through therapy over the past two years has led to her selection as honoree for the Washington Arthritis Walk.

"She's just so excited to do it," Heather said. "She's already planned her outfit for the day."

The Arthritis Walk is held annually by the Arthritis Foundation to raise money for arthritis research and promote awareness of one of the nation's leading causes of disability. This year's walk will be held May 10 at Consol Energy Park in North Franklin Township.

The Alianos, of Carnegie, became involved with the Arthritis Foundation at the suggestion of a therapist. They helped plan last year's walk, which attracted 120 supporters. They are expecting a better turnout this year.

Joining them in the walk will be other families with children like Faith, as well as Faith's grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and her older sister, Hope.

The Alianos credit the Children's Therapy Center of Washington Hospital and the Children's Hospital Department of Rheumatology for their daughter's successful treatment.

"If you would look at Faith, you wouldn't even know she has arthritis," Heather Aliano said. "She only has slight limitations, and it's mainly for physical activities."

JRA affects more than 300,000 children in the United States, and can lead to respiratory problems and uveitis, arthritis of the eyes. Because Faith was diagnosed so young, there is a chance she could outgrow JRA, but right now her family's primary concern is supporting their daughter and others who live with arthritis.

"Being part of the foundation and the event makes you feel like you're not alone. There are other people out there going through the same things you are," Heather said. "I really want people to know that there is hope."

Those interested in walking can register at www.arthritiswalkwash08.kintera.org, or call 800-522-9900. Registration also will be accepted at the walk site on May 10, starting at 8:30 a.m. The walk begins at 9:30 a.m.

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