Helgi Olafson has a history of involvement as a patient advocate in the spondylitis and arthritis communities throughout the world. He is portrayed by his peers as a success story when regarded using an “exercise as medicine” approach to dealing with the complications of ankylosing spondylitis.
He is a competitive endurance athlete, despite his debilitating condition. His story has been featured in local newspapers and newscasts where he has raced, as well as through many online health publications and even as the first episode of This AS Life Live, alongside world famous musician Dan Reynolds from Imagine Dragons. Helgi Olafson has previously been featured as a speaker in the United Kingdom, Canada, and the US.
As an ultra-runner, Helgi likes to be one with the elements of nature and, due to his struggles and wins within his own battle with AS, Helgi has built the mental fortitude to put himself through challenges, where the only way forward is through. In the 200-mile ultramarathon scene, he has become a figure of sorts, being very transparent about his struggles and triumphs to get to the finish line. Helgi looks at every race as not only a journey, but also a battle.
Helgi was diagnosed at age 19 with AS. His diagnosing doctor was supportive and gave him options. He assured Helgi that his life was not over. It had only just begun.
It is in this spirit that Helgi created his event to support SAA’s mission and vision. Funds raised from his event have helped SAA deliver the support that the spondylitis community needs, especially those who are newly diagnosed and are looking for answers.
SAA is grateful for Helgi’s support and appreciates all the work that went into his event. He is truly an AS Pain Warrior!
Input your search keywords and press Enter.
