Greenlee
Juvenile Arthritis
Youth Honoree

Shortly after Greenlee’s second birthday, her right knee swelled to the size of a softball, and she woke crying each morning. At daycare, she spent her first few hours sitting in the corner with a blanket. Her journey with juvenile arthritis included countless medications, steroid injections, weekly shots, blood draws, many insurance calls, and eye appointments.

After years of trial and error, Greenlee reached medicated remission, followed by unmedicated remission. Though flares and other challenges continued, she never lets arthritis define her.

Today, Greenlee is a healthy, active 13-year-old who plays club soccer, runs cross country and track, and competes in swimming. Her journey is a testament to her strength and resilience.

University of Iowa Pediatric Rheumatology Team
Medical Honorees

The University of Iowa Pediatric Rheumatology Division is an interdisciplinary team dedicated to improving the lives of children with rheumatic disease across Iowa and surrounding states. The team includes division director Polly Ferguson, MD; Sandy Hong, MD; Scott Lieberman, MD; Inna Powers, MD; and Courtney Kremer, ARNP, supported by nurses Cortney Greiner and Cathy Figueora, clinical specialty pharmacist Tara Bergland, research coordinator Joehan Quach, and program coordinator Molly Evans. Together, the division provides comprehensive clinical care and conducts research focused on advancing treatment, improving outcomes, and helping children thrive while living with rheumatic disease.