A.S. Face 0447: Austin

Austin’s Story

Austin was like a little old man growing up. Always hunched over in the morning when he got out of bed. Years of physical therapists and pain and no one knew what was wrong with him. Finally, in 6th grade, he was officially diagnosed with spondylitis. He started aggressive treatment in 8th grade. Life is a challenge, but he pushes through and tries to continue playing soccer; a sport he loves. This past year, Austin started a gluten-free diet and that has helped make pain more manageable, along with the prescribed medications. We hope and pray that he will be able to continue standing tall for many years to come.

Minnesota United States of America

3 Responses to “A.S. Face 0447: Austin”

Dear Austin,
Thank you so much for sharing your story with us.
Sincerely Cookie

Cookie Has A.S. said this on May 20, 2012 at 9:43 pm | Reply
Poor boy & so young do hope things do not get to bad for him we all know how he feels & wish him the best of luck.

Peter Nuttall said this on May 20, 2012 at 10:15 pm | Reply
Is that what I think it is? Could it be? On your left arm. I think it is! It’s a FACE’s of AS bracelet! WE gots ourselves a NEW nephew in our family. Austin, I think it’s the courage you young guys show, that helps us old AS’ers deal with AS. Your courage is an example for all us adults. And I think I speak for all of us “old farts” when I say thanks(of course-we all know Cookie isn’t old-trust me Austin,don’t call Auntie Cookie old-she’ll take a swing at ya).Remember Austin, AS’ers like to laugh.

AS’ers also beleive in making negatives into postives. And I know this will be hard to swallow now, but being diagnosed now means you can shape your life around AS before you pick a career and GO TO college, and not let AS shape your life later. Not only am I not worried about you, but I think you’re going to USE AS to make you a better person.

PS-I love that warm Minnesota morning sun.

Derek said this on May 21, 2012 at 12:02 am | Reply

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