Spondylitis Association of America Forums General Discussion Off-Topic Forum Happy Thanksgiving! Who are you grateful for?

Happy Thanksgiving everyone! The community that these online forums offer are among the things we at SAA are deeply grateful for. Thank you for making this such a welcoming, supportive place! You're its heart and soul, and we thank you for your invaluable contributions.

Has someone made a difference in your life by their actions and support? Who would you like to recognize for going over and beyond?

In the spirit of Thanksgiving, we invite you to share with us those who have made a positive impact on your life. Recognize a medical professional, a loved one, a yoga instructor, hospital administrator, pharmacist, your neighbor, a fellow forum poster, or anyone else.

I will start by saying that my mom is the most amazingly helpful, supportive, selfless, giving, and kind person I know! Sorry if that's corny but it's true! I'm so blessed to have her. The help, unconditional love, and support she gives me and my family makes a huge difference in our lives. I am deeply grateful for her.

I don't know that I can single out just one person. My whole family is so supportive. My mother, who at age 88 and crippled with arthritis, offered to come help me after my latest knee surgery. My husband, who supports me and listens while I vent, even though he has multiple health conditions himself. My two children, who have both taken time off to be with me during and after my surgeries. And my little granddaughter, whose smile can make me forget about any pain I may be dealing with.

I am also grateful for this forum, that provided answers and support when I was first diagnosed, along with the SAA website and resources.

And my church family is always there for me, praying for me, bringing food after surgery, and supporting me in every way they can.

I truly have so much to be grateful for.

love reading Elin's and Ginny's posts. thank you for sharing.

I'm grateful to so, so many as well. My bride and children of course. Clergy, teachers and friends of course. The supportive SAA community of course. the dedicated researchers and medical professionals that get it.

At this moment, I'm specifically thinking of a clinician researcher that exemplifies so much... Dr. Bob Colbert. He was so generous with his time and expertise to volunteer as Chair for the Spondylitis Unmet Needs Conference at NIH. I believe that conference will have lasting influence & motivation for spondylitis research for years to come. He was such a 'mensch' to work with.