Chelli and Scott’s Wedding

October 9, 2021

In lieu of gifts, Scott and Chelli have asked that donations be made to the Spondylitis Association of America.

For more than 35 years, the Spondylitis Association of America has spoken out on behalf of all who suffer from spondylitis. By making a donation to SAA, you will directly contribute to much-needed public awareness efforts, educational outreach programs, research initiatives, treatment advances and the ongoing search for the cure. Add your voice to our mission to be a leader in the quest to cure ankylosing spondylitis and related diseases, and to empower those affected to live life to the fullest. Together, our voice is louder. Together, we make a difference.

The Spondylitis Association of America congratulates Scott and Chelli on their special day. May the joys from this wedding day last long into the years and decades to come!

Scott’s AS Journey

Growing up my life revolved around basketball. When I wasn’t playing hours a day I was watching the Bulls and DePaul – my two favorite teams. One day in sixth grade I woke up with such bad pain in my right hip I could barely walk. Nothing made it feel better, and I was devastated thinking I would never again play the sport I loved.

Shortly after I was fortunate to meet with Dr Lauren Pachman, an amazing rheumatologist at Children’s Memorial in Chicago who diagnosed AS, and my journey with the disease began. I was even more fortunate the team at Children’s was progressive for doctors at the time, in that they encouraged me to continue with competitive sports.

What I have learned since is that my experience is pretty remarkable. Many people spend years trying to get a diagnosis. Imagine being in pain every day and having no idea what is causing it, whether there is a treatment or a cure. My dad was medically discharged from the Marines for chronic hip pain and went most of his adult life without getting diagnosed. Fortunately my sons who also have AS did not have to suffer for years not knowing the source of their pain.

Founded in 1983, SAA has been a leading voice sponsoring research, advocacy and education for both doctors and patients. The end-goal of course is a cure, but until then SAA’s efforts have made it possible for millions of patients to live their lives with not just AS but related diseases to the fullest.

The cause of course is personal, but I am also proud to be able to support an organization that follows the highest ethical standards for nonprofits, with a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator.

Our family’s and friends’ presence at our wedding celebration is present enough. Thank you so much for considering support of SAA in lieu of a gift.

-Scott

By: Scott Fishman