Amanda Thomason
Ankylosing Spondylitis
Adult Honoree

After experiencing pain and redness in her eye, Amanda was diagnosed with uveitis. Since uveitis can indicate an auto-immune issue, she saw a rheumatologist and was diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis. It affects her lower back and hips, and stiffness makes basic things, like bending down or getting up from a chair, more difficult.

Amanda has always been active, and tries to maintain this lifestyle because she doesn’t want to let her ankylosing spondylitis “win.” She always says, “Some days are harder than others, but when you have a good day, those will feel twice as special.”

Amanda has participated in the Jingle Bell Run since 2012 and enjoys knowing she is part of helping the organization, whose goal is to help those living with arthritis lead a higher quality of life.