Joint Chat Rheum
Building Connections, Fostering Community
What is Joint Chat Rheum?
Joint Chat Rheum (JCR) is a new program proudly launched by Take a Pain Check to empower and connect youth and young adults (ages 16–29) living with rheumatic diseases. Designed to foster a sense of belonging, JCR brings together individuals who truly understand the challenges of navigating life with a rheumatic condition. Led by passionate ambassadors with lived experience, this initiative offers a safe and supportive space for meaningful conversations, mutual support, and the creation of lasting friendships. Through JCR, participants gain a vibrant community where they can share their stories, find strength in shared experiences, and build connections that inspire resilience and hope.
Please note that we will be starting recruitment soon for this program. This program begins in September, 2025.
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Program Structure & Benefits
Our program is a 6-month commitment featuring monthly one-hour sessions via Zoom. Each session is designed to be interactive and engaging, combining structured discussions with fun activities. Participants not only connect during live sessions but also continue their conversations through our exclusive Discord community. Key details include:
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Duration: 6-month program commitment
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Session Frequency: Monthly one-hour sessions via Zoom
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Participant Capacity: Between 5-10 participants per cohort
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Attendance Requirement: Attend all one-hour sessions
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Honorarium: Participants who meet attendance requirements will receive an honorarium upon program completion
Session Format & Activities
Every monthly session is thoughtfully structured to encourage interaction and camaraderie. Activities include:
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Interactive team-building exercises
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Engaging group discussions on relevant topics
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Q&A opportunities
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Game nights and social activities
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Guided conversations led by peer ambassadors
Program Benefits
By joining JCR, you will:
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Connect with peers who truly understand your journey
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Build lasting friendships in a supportive, informal setting
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Share experiences and learn from others
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Participate in engaging activities and discussions
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Enjoy a community that extends beyond the monthly sessions
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Receive a program completion honorarium
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Gain access to an exclusive Discord community
Upcoming Session Dates – February to June
2025 Cohort
Our 2025 calendar included:
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February 27: 7–8 PM EST, led by Jenna Kedy (lives with JIA)
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March 27: 6–7 PM EST, led by Sahara Mehdi (lives with RA)
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April 24: 6–7 PM EST, led by Yaneisy-Nynoska Tremblay (lives with SLE)
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May (Date TBD): Led by Anna Samson (lives with axSpA)
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June 30: 6–7 PM EST, led by Morgane Hanley (lives with fibromyalgia and JIA)
Check back soon to see what sessions we're hosting in 2025/2026!
Eligibility & Application Process
To participate in the JCR Program, you must:
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Be diagnosed with a rheumatic disease
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Be between 16–29 years of age
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Commit to attending all sessions
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Be willing to actively participate in discussions and activities
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Be willing to complete surveys before and after each session
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Have access to Zoom for virtual sessions
If you do not meet the age range but would still like to participate, please email us—we review applications on a case-by-case basis.
Help Spread the Word!
A key aim of Take a Pain Check Foundation is to connect individuals with rheumatic conditions to resources and support networks. Having promotional posters, flyers, and business cards in healthcare settings can help guide young individuals with rheumatic conditions toward our community. We kindly ask those who can spread the word and raise awareness about our JCR Program to share our posters by accessing our shared google drive or by signing up for our hospital promotional material initiative. We hope that we can count on your support!
Interested in learning more?
Reach out to us! You can email ambassadors@takeapaincheck.com to get in touch with us regarding this program.
Thank you to our previous program partner; the University of Pennsylvania
