Run for Stella
Stella’s story is one marked by extraordinary resilience and hope.
Diagnosed with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) – later identified as rheumatoid arthritis (RA)-at age 15 during Year 9, she endured a long, uncertain year before answers finally arrived.
It began with achy fingers and relentless fatigue, which her family initially blamed on “chill blaines” from the winter cold. But as pain crept from her hands and wrists to smaller joints, it became clear there was something more concerning going on.
Stella’s journey to a diagnosis was anything but straightforward. She missed most of Years 8 and 9, as her family pursued every possible avenue-before finally reaching a pivotal appointment at Monash in February.
Picture: Sam and Stella Dennis
It was there that the diagnosis provided clarity, yet it also ushered in a new chapter of challenges. Treatments meant countless blood tests, infusions, and injections, turning Stella into what she describes as a “pin cushion.” Still, even with the best care, her arthritis would not be tamed. An eventual diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis brought new medications along with a definite path for managing her arthritis.
Despite these ongoing hurdles, Stella’s quiet perseverance stands as a beacon to the many young people navigating childhood arthritis. Her courage, grit, and determination are at the heart of “Run for Stella”. Stella’s brother Sam will be running 150 kms from ‘The Tan’ track in Melbourne CBD to Warragul to raise awareness for arthritis, to support essential research, shine a spotlight on the reality of juvenile arthritis and to celebrate Stella’s indomitable spirit.
Stella is not alone, there are an estimated 31,000 children and young adults living with arthritis and arthritis impacts over 4 million Australians that deserve better care.
By supporting or volunteering with Arthritis Australia for events like “Run for Stella”, Australians can help change the story for families like Stella’s. Every act of support builds a more understanding community and drives crucial progress for young people living bravely with arthritis.
There are several meaningful ways to support “Run for Stella” and make a difference for young people living with arthritis:
- Run with Sam: Lace up and join Sam for the last 10kms to Western Park Reserve, Warragul to show solidarity with Stella and all young people living with arthritis.
- Volunteer at Warragul: Lend a hand to help the Dennis family at the Western Park Reserve at the end of the run. You could be helping out at the canteen or taking a shift at the sausage sizzle. Email admin@dennismedia.com.au to get involved.
- Join Sam and the Dennis family at The Tan track to kick off his run on October 17th at 6pm or them at the Western Park Reserve, Warragul on October 18th at 6pm ($5 entry fee applies)
Learn more or get involved at the official “Run for Stella” event page below.
Discover more...
-
Building the Case for a National Arthritis & Musculoskeletal Research Mission
On March 30 we launched our new report, Evaluation of Preferred Investment Models for Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Research, making a powerful case for a dedicated...
-
New Report Uncovers Alarming Lack of Research Funding into Our Leading Cause of Disability and Pain
New report recommends Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF) mission for arthritis and musculoskeletal diseases A new Research Australia report released today by Arthritis Australia confirms...
-
Arthritis Australia appoints Chief Executive Officer
MEDIA RELEASE – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE3 February 2026 Arthritis Australia today announced the appointment of Louise Hardy as Chief Executive Officer, following her tenure as...
Sign up to Arthritis Insights
Regular updates, news and research findings delivered to your inbox:
