Arthritis is a pain in the…knee…hip…foot. If you live with it, you know it’s no joke.
I’ve been living with arthritis for more than 40 years. It’s the leading cause of joint pain in America, affecting millions of people of every age. Arthritis can slow you down, change what you love to do, and make even everyday activities painful and frustrating.
For me, arthritis changed the course of my life.
At just 24 years old, after my second knee surgery, my orthopedic surgeon looked at me and said, “Your knee has the arthritis of an 85-year-old.” Then came the words that changed everything: “If you want to be able to walk when you’re 30, you need to stop all impact sports immediately.”
BTTC Co-Owner, Robin Robertson
No one wants to hear that—especially a competitive collegiate runner. I had to give up my final track season at Western Washington University and the sport I loved.
Unfortunately, my arthritis continued to progress. By age 34, my knee had deteriorated to the point that my leg had become knock-kneed, and walking was a struggle.
The constant pain was difficult, but what hurt even more was what I couldn’t do. I had two young children, ages 2 and 4, and I couldn’t run after them at the park or simply keep up with them the way every parent wants to.
Arthritis didn’t just affect me—it affected my entire family.
Over the years, I underwent eight surgeries to keep my knee functioning until I was finally old enough for a total knee replacement. While I’ve learned to adapt and stay active, I know firsthand that there are millions of people still living with the daily challenges of arthritis.
That’s why the Arthritis Foundation’s work matters.
Every dollar raised helps support research for better treatments, education, advocacy, and, ultimately, a cure.
Join BTTC Robin’s Reindeer Team!
This December, we’re coming together for the Jingle Bell Run to make a difference—and we’d love for you to join us.
Whether you walk, run, or simply jingle around your neighborhood in your favorite holiday pajamas, you’ll be helping bring hope to the millions of people living with arthritis.
Mark your calendar for DECEMBER 12 & SIGN UP for the BTTC Robin’s Reindeer Team during July and receive a $5 registration discount!
Grab your friends, put on your antlers, and let’s do some good—one step at a time.
-Robin Robertson
