The TAPC Animals
What are the TAPC animals?
The Take a Pain Check animals were created to add a bit of fun to the lives of youth and young people living with rheumatic conditions. We started with Rheumy, the Rheumatology Bear, which represented all kinds of rheumatic conditions. After receiving so much love from our community when we introduced Rheumy in November of 2023, we decided to add more animals to the TAPC family. The second animal we introduced was Lupie, the Lupus Llama, premiering at the American College of Rheumatology conference in November of 2024. Next, we introduced Dermie, the Dermatomyacitis Duck in May 2025, at the first-ever Take a Pain Check in-person event.
Rheumy the Rheumatology Bear
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Hi! My name is Rheumy...
And I'm your new Roomie!
I'm your personal pain bear, because the pain associated with chronic illnesses can be hard for a person to bear.
But whether you have a chronic condition or you're just looking to support TAPC, I hope I can be a support for you when you're feeling under the weather.
Lupie the Lupus Llama
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Hi! My name is Lupie...
And I'm your new Lively Llama Friend!
I'll be your personal pain llama, here to help carry the load because living with Lupus can be tough. When you need some support I'll be here for you, it's no prob-llama!
Whether you're battling with flares or looking for some support, I hope I can "Lup-lift" you when you're feeling drained or wooly-headed.
Dermie the Dermatomyositis Duck
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Hi! My name is Dermie...
And I'm your new Dependable Duck!
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I understand that living with Dermatomyositis can feel like swimming against the current. Whether your muscles feel weak or your skin's acting up, I'll be floating right by your side. ​
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So when your feathers get ruffled, I'll be your soft, determined friend to lean on. Let's ride out the waves together, one waddle at a time!
How to get a TAPC animal
Currently, our animals are not for sale. However, we do give them away during social media giveaways, conference raffles, and more. Stay tuned to our social media channels to see where and when you can get your own TAPC animal.
