Arthritis is a serious, urgent health crisis that demands our attention today.
September is Arthritis Awareness Month and Arthritis Society Canada is shining a light on how arthritis steals from millions of people across Canada every single day, and how each of us can help take back what arthritis has stolen. Our work is driven by a relentless pursuit for a cure by investing in groundbreaking research to uncover the root causes of arthritis and striving for life-changing treatments.
Here are four ways you can take part in Arthritis Awareness Month:
1. Read and share our stories
We are sharing stories of brave individuals on our website and social channels through our Faces of Arthritis campaign, showcasing the immense challenges of living with arthritis.
You’ll find stories of people like Gilbert, from Quebec, who endures the relentless pain of osteoarthritis every single day. For many years, he dismissed his pain. Upon seeing an orthopedic surgeon, he learned that he needed both his knees replaced. An earlier diagnosis would have made a world of a difference. Now, long wait times add to his pain.
Share Gilbert’s story and others on your social media channels, and tag @arthritissociety to help raise awareness.
2. Advocate for change
Across Canada, people are waiting too long for life-changing joint replacement surgeries. Gilbert is losing precious time as arthritis steals his mobility. “I’ve been on a waitlist for my right knee for over a year now. I'll have to go through the same process again for the second knee. The pain and strain have forced me to reduce my work hours and give up some physical tasks,” says Gilbert. “I still love my job and am not ready to retire.”
You can make a difference by sending a letter to your elected officials, urging them to take action.
3. Win a trip to see The Tenors in concert!
What has arthritis stolen from you or your loved ones? Share your experience by October 12, 2024, for a chance to win an unforgettable night away in Niagara Falls and see The Tenors, Arthritis Society Canada’s ambassadors perform live. Visit here for contest details.
4. Attend our virtual Arthritis Talks webinar
Attend our special Arthritis Awareness Month Arthritis Talks webinar on September 26th at 6 pm E.T., where we’ll explore whether gluten impacts arthritis. Register here.
There’s even more in store for Arthritis Awareness Month, from local proclamations to advocacy efforts — these activities amplify our mission to support the 6 million people in Canada living with arthritis. Stay tuned for updates and be sure to follow our social channels linked at the bottom of this page for the latest news and stories.