WORD Day

World Young Rheumatic Disease Day or Word Day for short was held again this year on the 18th March. The aim of the day, which started four years ago, 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 came from a discussion between EATC4C trainee, Dr Eve Smith  and a small group of parents whilst attending the Paediatric Rheumatology European Association (PReS) Congress a few years ago. Word Day was founded and continues to be organised by a small but enthusiastic international team supported by PReS.

Each year Word Day has grown and events are held as the day is marked by charities, young patients, parents, doctors and other health professionals 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. This year the Word Day international social media campaign was incredibly well supported and a huge success.

Two international webinars were also held on the day, bringing health professionals, charities, patients and parents around the table to share lived experience, ask questions and discuss issues connected to paediatric rheumatic disease.

(Paediatric rheumatology experts gather to address pressing questions on key symptomatic red flags, diagnosis, treatment options, and daily practices and rituals to lead a long and healthy life with a rheumatic disease)

(Patients and their parents take centre stage during this round table webinar exploring how to help young people living with rheumatic diseases live a full and positive life)

Closer to home, some of the most famous buildings in Liverpool were lit up in Word Day colours and some of the EATC team took part in a large Meet the Scientist, University of Liverpool event held at The World Museum.  Our charity partners, Versus Arthritis, Lupus UK and other national charities continue to support Word Day and spread awareness in a number of ways.

WORD Day 2021

Previous WORD Day activities

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