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Media release
For immediate release
Thursday 5 November 2009
‘All fired up’ – young adults with musculoskeletal conditions
When Dr Sian Cole, a Melbourne-based health psychologist and researcher, was diagnosed with
juvenile arthritis at 11 years of age she didn’t have anyone to talk to about her condition although
her family was very supportive.
“In the early 90s when I was diagnosed, there was little information available about juvenile
arthritis”, says Dr Cole, “and it was difficult to find emotional support for young people with this
type of painful condition. As I grew older, I actually became quite depressed. Now, as a young
working adult, I appreciate how important it is to share information and experiences with people of
the same age.”
Upcoming workshop
Dr Cole, who is also President of the Young Adults Arthritis Group, is one of the key speakers at
an Arthritis Victoria workshop at the Melbourne Town Hall to be held on Saturday 28 November.
The workshop is an annual event open to young adults who live with musculoskeletal conditions
such as rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, lupus or fibromyalgia. It is an
opportunity to gain information, network and make new friends, seek peer support, and hear from
the experts. Relatives and carers are welcome also.
Key speakers
Health psychologist Dr Sian Cole will talk about the psychological impact of living with a
chronic condition and discuss emotions, communication and relationships.
Rheumatologist Dr Michelle Leech will explain the inflammatory response involved in
autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.
Arthritis Victoria tai chi teacher Ben Seow will introduce ‘My Tai Chi’, a mind-body exercise
program suitable for people with arthritis and other musculoskeletal conditions
Workshop information
What:
‘All fired up’: a workshop for young adults with musculoskeletal conditions
When:
Saturday 28 November 2009, 2pm – 5pm. Registration from 1.30pm.
Registration and pre-payment are essential.
Where:
Yarra Room, Melbourne Town Hall, cnr Swanston & Collins Sts, Melbourne
Cost:
$15 per person. $10 per person for Arthritis Victoria members. Accompanying
carers are welcome to register free of charge.
Bookings:
Phone Sandra Barry, Arthritis Victoria, on 03 8531 8008 or
sandra.barry@arthritisvic.org.au.
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Media contact
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Sue Montague, Communications Manager, Arthritis Victoria, phone 03 8531 8024,
mobile 0422 794 885, email sue.montague@arthritisvic.org.au
Notes to editor
arthritis, osteoporosis and other musculoskeletal conditions. We aim to improve quality of life,
prevent disability, promote self-management and positive health and fitness, increase
independence and support the efforts of carers.
Over 1.5 million people in Victoria have a musculoskeletal condition. More than 820,000 have
arthritis.
More than half of all people with arthritis are of working age (15-64 years).
Juvenile arthritis affects 1 in 1000 children.
For information on arthritis, osteoporosis and other musculoskeletal conditions, call the Arthritis
Victoria Telephone Information Service, 10am to 4pm, Monday to Friday. Phone 03 8531
8000 or 1800 011 041 (toll free for country callers).
NEWS 
