Teenager publishes poetry collection ‘Chronically Coping’ to increase understanding of juvenile arthritis

On Wednesday 21 May, 2025, 18-year-old Kyle Brooks made his literary debut with the release of his first collection of poems, titled “Chronically Coping”. The book offers a raw and evocative glimpse into Kyle’s experiences living with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA), an autoimmune condition that causes pain, reduced mobility, and can lead to long-term disability if left untreated.

In an effort to raise awareness and support for others affected by JIA, Kyle has pledged to donate all proceeds from his book to Juvenile Arthritis Research, a UK-based charity. The organization was founded by Richard Beesley after his daughter’s own diagnosis with JIA and is dedicated to providing support for children and families dealing with this often-overlooked condition.

Having been diagnosed with JIA during his teenage years, Kyle has found solace in poetry as a means to process the physical and emotional challenges of living with a chronic illness. His work delves into the complexities of daily life with arthritis, shedding light on aspects that are frequently misunderstood or overlooked.

Through initiatives like their “Think JIA” campaign, Juvenile Arthritis Research aims to educate healthcare professionals and the public about the reality of childhood arthritis, which is often misdiagnosed or dismissed as “growing pains”. Kyle’s book is now available for purchase on the charity’s official website, www.jarproject.org/kyle. For more information and to support this important cause, please visit their website.