I am joining the march because I have multiple chronic illnesses. My rheumatologist was hesitant to diagnose me with Ankylosing Spondylitis at 16 because she knew the problems I would run into with insurance due to pre-existing conditions. However, if she didn’t, I wouldn’t have access to the medication that my body needed to slow the progression of the disease and help with the pain. I have dealt with this disease (and numerous others) for 12 years now, and if I lose my health insurance, I don’t know what will happen to me. So I march.

I am a 28-year-old woman who is diagnosed with multiple chronic illnesses. I love to sing, play piano, read, and play with my dogs, or take them on walks with my fiancé if it’s a good pain day.