The Piedmont Triad (Greensboro, Winston-Salem, High Point) Support Group

Heidi was diagnosed with Ankylosing Spondylitis at age 22 after experiencing several years of unexplained lower back pain and visits to numerous doctors. Her diagnosis finally came after she awoke one morning with severely limited vision and red, irritated eyes. An ophthalmologist diagnosed her with iritis and, recognizing the connection between eye inflammation and joint pain, referred her to a rheumatologist. Testing revealed that she was HLA-B27 positive, leading to her diagnosis of Ankylosing Spondylitis, now known as Axial Spondyloarthritis. After living with the disease for more than two decades, Heidi brings valuable experience with both biologic and natural treatments.

Heidi is a wife, mother of two daughters, educator, and passionate advocate for people living with Spondyloarthritis. She became interested in leading a support group after discovering the SAA and realizing how valuable it could be to connect with others who understand the challenges of living with AS. She enjoys creating a supportive space where members can connect, share their experiences, learn from each other, and stay informed about research and advances in treatment.