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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 16–25) 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.
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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:

  • Duration: 6-month program commitment

  • Session Frequency: Monthly one-hour sessions via Zoom

  • Participant Capacity: Limited to 10 participants per cohort

  • Attendance Requirement: Attend 5 one-hour sessions

  • 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:

  • Interactive team-building exercises

  • Engaging group discussions on relevant topics

  • Q&A opportunities

  • Game nights and social activities

  • Guided conversations led by peer ambassadors

Program Benefits

By joining JCR, you’ll:

  • Connect with peers who truly understand your journey

  • Build lasting friendships in a supportive, informal setting

  • Share experiences and learn from others

  • Participate in engaging activities and discussions

  • Enjoy a community that extends beyond the monthly sessions

  • Receive a program completion honorarium

  • Gain access to an exclusive Discord community

Upcoming Session Dates – February to June
2025 Cohort

Mark your calendars for our upcoming sessions:

  • February 27: 7–8 PM EST, led by Jenna Kedy (lives with JIA)

  • March 27: 6–7 PM EST, led by Sahara Mehdi (lives with RA)

  • April 24: 6–7 PM EST, led by Yaneisy-Nynoska Tremblay (lives with SLE)

  • May (Date TBD): Led by Anna Samson (lives with axSpA)

  • June 30: 6–7 PM EST, led by Morgane Hanley (lives with fibromyalgia and JIA)

Eligibility & Application Process

To participate in the JCR Program, you must:

  • Be diagnosed with a rheumatic disease

  • Be between 16–25 years of age

  • Commit to attending at least 5 out of 6 sessions

  • Be willing to actively participate in discussions and activities

  • 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 the 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!
Can't Join This Session?
Join our mailing list! You will be notified every month about the latest session topic, date, and time.
Interested in Our Past Event Topics?
Previously partnered with the University of Pennsylvania
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