By Trish Barbato
People are often surprised when I tell them I have arthritis in my hands, knees and toes. The most common reactions are, “You’re too young” or “Isn’t that an older person’s disease?” I’ll admit, when I was diagnosed in my early 40s, I thought the same thing. Like many, I assumed arthritis was something that came with old age—a natural and inevitable part of getting older. But that couldn’t be further from the truth.
In Canada, half of the people with arthritis are under the age of 65, and a third are diagnosed before 45. Arthritis doesn’t discriminate by age. It can affect anyone, including teenagers, children and even infants as young as 18 months. It is a serious, lifelong and incurable disease that causes debilitating pain and steals mobility, independence and quality of life.
I’ve witnessed firsthand how devastating arthritis can be. I’ve watched loved ones cut their careers short because their hand osteoarthritis stopped them from performing their duties or their rheumatoid arthritis impacted their mobility. I’ve seen how it creeps into everyday life, stealing joy from even the simplest of activities. Many suffer in silence, trying to push through while the disease quietly takes its toll.
This personal connection is what fuels my passion for leading Arthritis Society Canada. Every day, we work to transform the future of arthritis through groundbreaking research, tireless advocacy efforts and vital support programs. We’re pushing for timely diagnoses, better treatments and more resources so that no one has to face this disease alone. We believe in a future where arthritis doesn’t have to be a life sentence, but a challenge we can overcome.
One of the ways we shine a spotlight on this invisible disease is through our signature event, Arthritis Fire Ball in Toronto. Now in its fourth year, this party with a purpose is a celebration of strength and resilience. Taking place on November 8, this glamorous black-tie affair features an elegant dining experience, stunning reception, inspirational stories from individuals with arthritis, live entertainment, and vibrant performances from our ambassadors and Juno award-winning vocal group, The Tenors. To learn more about this dazzling gala and how you can attend, visit arthritis.ca/fireball.
Arthritis affects one in five people in Canada, so it’s likely someone you love is living with this painful disease. Whether it’s a friend, coworker or family member, arthritis impacts all of us. And while the challenge is great, so is our potential to make a difference. Everyone has a role to play, and together, we can change the course of arthritis.
Trish Barbato is president and CEO of Arthritis Society Canada, the national charity dedicated to fighting arthritis with research, advocacy, innovation, information and support.