A.S. Face 1834: Patty Putnam
My name is Patty Putnam. I recently moved to Rhode Island with my husband and bulldog, Coconut. I was diagnosed with AS, 3 years ago at the age of 40. Shortly thereafter I was also diagnosed with Fibromyalgia, Hashimotos, and Sjogrens. I have been feeling the symptoms of these diseases as far back as my 20’s but I was dismissed by doctors, specialists and my husband at that time. So, knowing it was real but having no support I continued to follow my passion for adventure as I lived in Colorado at the time. I was a long distance runner and enjoyed climbing 14ers. (14,000 ft. mountains) by my late 30’s the pain started escalating in my feet and back. Finally, At 40 I could barely walk and lived in constant agony. I am now happy to say that I focus on the positives in life and am learning to appreciate what I CAN do vs. who I “use to be”.
Rhode Island, United States of America
Dear Patty,
Thank you so much for sharing your story with us.
Sincerely Cookie
Thank you again Cookie for all you have done and continue to do!
Sincerely,
Patty
Thank you so much!