Living with Ankylosing Spondylitis: My Journey of Rediscovering Who I Am

We never get snow in Georgia, but we did in January of 2025, and for the first time in over a decade, I was healthy enough to enjoy it fully!

Hello! My name is Ivy, and I’m a 45-year-old navigating life with Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS). I was diagnosed a decade ago, and since then, my journey has been one of growth, resilience, and self-discovery. I created Uniquely Me & Loving It: My Journey living with Ankylosing Spondylitis to share my experiences—from the very beginning up to today. I hope that my story will not only educate and inspire others with AS or chronic health conditions but also encourage anyone enduring the challenges of chronic pain, as well as the healthcare providers who support us. I sincerely believe that knowledge is power, and through sharing our stories, we can offer invaluable insights and empower one another.

My journey began in May 2014, just six months into my new marriage. At the time, I was working in special education, and we initially thought my symptoms stemmed from a minor injury I had sustained while ensuring a student’s safety. It took many months to receive a formal diagnosis, and the ten years since have been marked by extraordinary highs and some of the darkest lows. Through it all, I’ve come to understand that AS affects everyone differently, often presenting unexpected challenges. I’ve learned that it’s okay to not always be okay.

Through this blog, I aim to encourage others to take life one day—sometimes just one step—at a time. I’ll be sharing my story in chronological order, eventually bringing you up to the present day. Along the way, I’ll post inspiring quotes, helpful tools, uplifting music, and more, while also keeping you updated on my health as it evolves.

I would love to hear about your journey with Ankylosing Spondylitis or any other health conditions. Each of us has unique experiences, and by connecting, we can learn from and support one another. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with questions or even just to chat. Life, despite its challenges, is a beautiful adventure, and I’m excited to grow my circle of friends as we navigate this path together.

Thank you for being part of my journey. I can’t wait to hear from you!