Why Should I Consider Getting a Second Opinion for My JM Child

Town Hall Meeting Sunday September 11, Why I should consider getting a second opinion for my JM Child with Lisa G. Rider and Jeffrey Dvergsten

Learning that your child has Juvenile Myositis may feel overwhelming. Second opinions can confirm a diagnosis, help you understand different treatment options, and review your child’s current treatment plan to ensure it’s the right one for your family.

Featuring:

Dr. Rider is a Pediatric Rheumatologist and Head of the Environmental Autoimmunity Group, National Institute of Environmental Health Science, National Institutes of Health, in Bethesda, Maryland. Dr. Rider is also an esteemed Cure JM Medical Advisory Board member. Since 2008, Dr. Rider has also been a Clinical Professor of Medicine at George Washington University. She sees patients and leads research on juvenile myositis in the Cure JM Center for Excellence and at the National Institute of Health as part of her research studies.

Dr. Dvergsten is a pediatric rheumatologist and physician-scientist who has built his clinical and research career around juvenile myositis. He co-founded Duke’s Myositis Clinic, a designated Cure JM Center of Excellence. He also created and manages a repository for research biospecimens from children with inflammatory myopathies.

Doctor with parent and juvenile myositis patient.

Treatment Plans for Juvenile Myositis

A treatment plan is based on many factors, including the severity and expression of the juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM). Each case is different and the symptoms can change over time.

Alex Hackney’s Story

Despite battling juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM) as a child, Alex Hackney never envisioned becoming a marathon runner, let alone completing prestigious races like the Chicago and New York Marathons. With over 15 years of grappling with JDM, Alex recently completing her third marathon and found closure and perspective in Chicago.

Join Cure JM

Membership is free and we’ll connect you with a network of support, encouragement, and resources.

Cure JM supports families, patients, and the juvenile myositis research community.

Interested in DIY fundraising but need help?

We’re here to help!

To have your fundraiser matched, add “DIY Match” in the memo of your online gift or check.