Deeanne Quist
Psoriatic Arthritis
Adult Honoree

Deeanne has been married for 20+ years to her husband Erik and is mom to two wonderful kids.  Her daughter is in college and her son in high school.  She loves knitting, cooking, and racing at Disney World.   
Several years ago, she worked in a grocery store as a home shopper.  This meant multiple laps around the entire store all day long.  Not long after switching to this role, she developed Plantar Fasciitis in her right foot.  Almost a year later, she had surgery for that and immediately had pain in the other foot, followed by her shoulder.  Her podiatrist was the one to suggest a rheumatologist! Finally, she was diagnosed with Psoriatic Arthritis.  Additionally, she was also recently diagnosed with Drug Induced Lupus.  

“My new “normal” now consists of a biologic (on my 4th), MTX injections, handcycling, and a love for advocacy and helping others.”  Deeanne and her husband are highly engaged volunteers for the Arthritis Foundation and their local efforts are helping to create much needed awareness about arthritis and rheumatic diseases in the community.

Deeanne is thrilled to be serving as the 2019 adult honoree for the Walk to Cure Arthritis in Orlando with a fundraising goal of $2500. 

To support Deeanne and her team with a donation and/or to join her team click here.

Peyton Mae
Juvenile Oligoarticular Arthritis
Youth Honoree
 

Peyton Mae is an active little girl who loves playing with her three big brothers, eating sweets, and all things Disney Princess.

Shortly before her 2nd birthday she started walking different. She was "stiff legged" and unable to bend her leg at the knee. At first it seemed to come and go, lasting a few minutes at a time. Over the following months it continued to progress. She would go all day unable to bend her legs. Her knees would swell, and it was obvious that the pain bothered her. Her pediatrician referred her to Nemours Children's Hospital where she met with specialists who ran tests, did x-rays, and eventually an MRI. After several months she was diagnosed with Juvenile Oligoarticular Arthritis.

Although daily medicine, physical therapy, and doctor's appointments are the new "normal" for her, she hasn't let it stop her! She loves to swim and loves going down the slide at the playground. Peyton will be celebrating her 3rd birthday in June!

Peyton's parents, Ronnie and Jenifer, are excited to have their little girl serve as the Youth Honoree for the 2019 Walk to Cure Arthritis in Orlando. "Peyton's rheumatologist pointed us in the direction of the Arthritis Foundation about a year ago. They've provided us with an abundance of information and resources, even a network of other children and families going through similar situations. We are thrilled to help the Arthritis Foundation bring awareness to Juvenile Arthritis!"

Put on your best princess outfit and come walk with Peyton!