Annie Ballantine’s Story - Park Midway

Annie Ballantine was first diagnosed with Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis ( JRA) at about six months of age. The few details she knows about her diagnosis and treatment, she has learned through family stories. As a baby, she had difficulty moving because of swollen, inflamed knees. The only ongoing treatment she received was a regimen of baby aspirin.

Annie’s future was looking as though she would spend her childhood (or longer) in a wheelchair. As a toddler she hadn’t yet started walking. Her parents were prepared by her rheumatologist to send her to kindergarten in a wheelchair. Little did they know that things were about to change. At age 4, almost overnight, the swelling in her knees began to dissipate. Annie became more active and playful and with some practice she started walking.

Annie learned about the Arthritis Foundation through a radio ad about the Joints in Motion program. She raised funds for the Arthritis Foundation and completed a full marathon in Dublin, Ireland.

Annie believes she is a great example of how someone with a debilitating disease can still achieve great things. Since the Dublin City Marathon she has completed two college degrees, started and currently runs her own interior design business, Annie Ballantine Design.




The Arthritis Foundation has been a constant source of hope and inspiration for not only Annie but also for many other people living with arthritis. With the information and support received from the Arthritis Foundation, Annie and those living with arthritis are able to take control of their disease and their life. Park Midway Bank is happy to work with both Annie Ballantine Design and the Arthritis Foundation. For more information on either business, check their websites at www.annieballantine.com or www.arthritis.org.