Catoosa Man Chosen As National Arthritis Advocate

NewsOn6.com

CATOOSA, Oklahoma -- A Catoosa man is taking big steps to help people suffering from arthritis.

Michael Jackson Jr., 25, was named the 2012 National Arthritis Walk Hero. He was in the Marines when he first noticed problems. A few years later he was diagnosed with severe osteoarthritis in his shoulders.

"I was told that I'd never see the gym again," he said. "You know it was pretty heartbreaking, almost brought tears to my eyes. You know, something that I once loved and enjoyed and I really couldn't do it, tried doing it and it's just not happening."

Now, Michael will share his story with others and encourage people to get involved with the Arthritis Foundation. It starts Thursday when he heads to California to shooting a public service announcement for next year's arthritis walks.