Michele Tower
This is my story of escape from bondage and to finding joy: 18 years ago, I was diagnosed with A.S. I was working as a phlebotomist/ medical assistant in a Rheumatologists office when I found out that I had the same condition for which I was treating many of my patients. My battle with A.S. has been much the same as others who carry the burden of A.S; as a physical, mental, emotional, social and spiritual roller coaster that we deal with on a daily basis. Today, however, I live virtually pain free and have for the past 2 years now. Every day feels like a miracle and a blessing and I feel an abundance of gratitute. As a result of this drastic change in my daily walk through a life of A.S., I want to encourage others and share the lifestyle changes that have improved all aspects of my person. The following is a list of the choices that I consider to have contributed the most to my current great health (It is by no means complete): 1.Water – adequate hydration 2. Walking – daily 3. Breathing – diaphragmatic 4. Food intake – close to nature 5. Laughter 6. Love 7. God and most of all 8. Overcoming a 13-year prescription opiate addiction over 2 years ago.
I would like to encourage everyone with A.S. to drink more water, as well as learn the truth about how opiates work against a body in chronic pain.
Joy and Love to All,
Michele Tower Thorne Bay, Alaska
p.s. Don’t quit five minutes before the miracle!
Alaska, United States of America
The Faces Of Ankylosing Spondylitis 
Dear Michele,
Thank you so much for sharing your story with us.
Sincerely Cookie