Anna Samson

Anna Samson is a 22-year-old from Canada, living just outside of Toronto. They are currently studying at McMaster University where they are majoring in English.

They first began showing symptoms of lower back pain and fatigue in 2016, just a few months before their 17th birthday. After countless tests and doctor's appointments with several different specialists, Anna received their official diagnosis of Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) by a rheumatologist in late 2019.

Since then, they have tried several different treatments to find some relief. They’ve tried NSAIDS and are now trying biologics. Learning of their condition sparked a long and ongoing journey of navigating the healthcare system and life in general as a young and disabled person.

Their condition has progressed since their initial diagnosis and they have found solace and understanding in the chronic illness and disabled communities online. They also post about their experiences with chronic illnesses and disabilities on their Instagram page, @chronicallyillxo.

They find comfort in reading, doing yoga, and spending time with their cat and dog. Anna loves to write and hopes they can use their writing to advocate and raise awareness for AS and axial spondyloarthritis (AxSpa) and those suffering from them.

Click here to read all of Anna’s articles on AxialSpondyloarthritis.net