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Teen Baker Raises JIA Awareness on Junior Bake Off

3/21/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Lyla, a 13-year-old from Coleraine, Northern Ireland, was diagnosed with juvenile idiopathic arthritis in 2024 and uses baking as therapy.
She faced school challenges after an initial misdiagnosis.
Lyla appeared on Channel 4's Junior Bake Off to raise awareness of JIA and inspire others.
She calls for a managed transition to adult arthritis care for young people with JIA in Northern Ireland.

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Story summary

Lyla, a 13-year-old from Coleraine, Northern Ireland, was diagnosed with juvenile idiopathic arthritis in 2024 and uses baking as therapy.
She faced school challenges after an initial misdiagnosis.
Lyla appeared on Channel 4's Junior Bake Off to raise awareness of JIA and inspire others.
She calls for a managed transition to adult arthritis care for young people with JIA in Northern Ireland.