WORD Day

World yOung Rheumatic Diseases Day (WORD) is an annual event that takes place on the 18th March. The aim of the day is to spread awareness across the international paediatric community that young people get rheumatic diseases and to enable all stakeholders to come together to increase understanding, earlier diagnosis and support.

The idea for Word Day originated from a discussion between Dr Eve Smith, an EATC4C trainee at the time, and a small group of parents whilst attending the Paediatric Rheumatology European Association (PReS) Congress in 2019. Word Day was founded as a result of this discussion and continues to be organised by a dedicated, enthusiastic international team with the support of PReS.

Over the years, WORD day has experienced amazing growth, with events being held by charities, young patients, parents, doctors and other health professionals from all around the world. From Canada to South America, across Europe, Africa and all the way to Australia, fun days, education workshops, charity and support events have raised vital awareness.  

Each year we hold international webinars, bringing health professionals, charities, patients and parents around the table to share lived experience, ask questions and discuss issues connected to paediatric rheumatic disease.

Within our local community, we have illuminated some of Liverpool’s most famous buildings in Word Day colours to raise awareness. The EATC team have participated in a large ‘Meet the Scientist’ University of Liverpool event, held at The World Museum. Furthermore, our charity partners, Versus Arthritis, Lupus UK and other national charities continue to support Word Day, helping to spread awareness about the cause.  

For more information on WORD day and how you can get involved, please visit our website. https://wordday.org/

 

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