Interview with my cousin: Ankylosing Spondylitis

Come with me as I interview my cousin Danielle about her Chronic Illness called Ankylosing Spondylitis. "Ankylosing spondylitis is an inflammatory disease that, over time, can cause some of the bones in the spine (vertebrae) to fuse. This fusing makes the spine less flexible and can result in a hunched posture. If ribs are affected, it can be difficult to breathe deeply.
There is no cure for ankylosing spondylitis, but treatments can lessen symptoms and possibly slow progression of the disease." -Mayo Clinic

[@Jaggededge112]

Well I see the resemblance lmao 🤣 y’all could be twins.

[@MandasMusings]

You’re definitely not wrong and not the first to make that comment! 😆 We’ve heard that one our entire lives. 😊

[@Jaggededge112]

@@MandasMusings well you’re both lovely ladies! It sucks to have so much pain in our lives.

[@Jaggededge112]

My pain has been so bad lately. They put me on nasal ketamine and it seems to help might change to the capsule form next month though. It doesn’t matter what I do rest or movement it doesn’t help.

[@MandasMusings]

Oh dear! I’m so sorry that you have to go through this. I know it’s not a huge comfort but know that you’re not alone.

[@Jaggededge112]

Oh got my new back and new seat cushion for the wheelchair. What a difference. The seat back really cradles my back and provides some stability which I’ve been needing. I got a ROHO seat and it’s pretty cool. Way different to what I’m used to but won’t take long to get accustomed to it.

[@Jaggededge112]

@@MandasMusings thank you. I know it is unseemly for a lady to scream in pain but sometimes I just want to, but being a lady and a marine keeps me from doing it. No I just sit in my room and cry where no one has to witness it.

[@MandasMusings]

I’m so glad that you have found something that helps, even a little bit. Sometimes it’s those small things that can make all the difference.