Meet Angela Saoud Our Northern Indiana Blogger

Angela and her mother Mary Ann

Name: Angela Saoud

Hometown: South Bend

Arthritis Condition: Systemic Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis

Diagnosed in: 2000

How has arthritis affected your life: Arthritis has made me really focus on my health and learn not to take the good days for granted. 

How long and in what capacity have you been connected to the Arthritis Foundation: I started working with the AF in 2004ish -- I work on various committees and try to spread the word to the community that we're here to support and help. 

Why do you volunteer for the Arthritis Foundation: The AF is a great organization that really serves to help the sufferers of arthritis and their family members. That support is crucial. 

Advice do you have for others: Take nothing for granted. Get educated about your condition and do everything you can to make the most of your situation. Stay active. And smile, a LOT! 

A little about you: I am a 27-year-old high school English/Journalism teacher in LaPorte, Ind. I also teach aerobics classes three days a week and try to stay as active as possible. 

What you will be blogging about: Personal experiences with arthritis and upcoming events from the Arthritis Foundation, Northern Indiana Branch