Dianne King-McGavin
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Adult Honoree
 After years of dealing with unexplained pain and fatigue, Dianne was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis in 2022, at the age of 57. Diagnosis was almost a relief because it helped explain why she sometimes felt like she was “rusting from the inside out”. The first year, sorting out a treatment plan was difficult and painful, but Dianne has seen improvement through having a compassionate rheumatologist, supplementing her treatments with physical therapy and massage to find relief, and learning what her triggers are.
Dianne became involved with Walk to Cure Arthritis due to wanting to be part of the arthritis community and to do her part in finding a cure. Dianne is the Senior Director of Scientific Publications for the American Gastroenterological Association and has seen first-hand the power of research and scholarly publishing in finding cures and treatments. She enjoys traveling, reading, visiting craft breweries, and spending her free time with her wife and two dogs, Nugget and Twyla. |
Abigail was diagnosed with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) in 2011 after months of symptoms that were brushed off until the disease was severe. Despite two flares over the years, Abigail has worked with her supportive friends, family, and doctors to learn how to manage the disease as she thrives in adulthood. She is also a Platinum Ambassador for the Arthritis Foundation and aspires to bring hope and encouragement to patients and their families.