Today, I got that awesome picture on the left from my friend Andrea. She wore her new #PSNeverGiveUp shirt at the 2020 Arthritis Foundation Virtual Jingle Bell Run! Andrea has always been a huge supporter of the Arthritis Foundation — in honor of her mom, Dana.
Dana was one of the first people I met when I first got involved with the Arthritis Foundation. She was an incredibly spunky woman with a real zest for life. Her energy and positivity were contagious. Not only did she encourage me to share my story with others (long before Amy and I even tried to start a family) she was a true inspiration to me.
Dana was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis as a young woman, and battled it for most of her life — along with breast cancer and pulmonary fibrosis. Not even a lung transplant could slow her down. I remember her telling me that it was important to “keep moving,” and that swimming was her favorite exercise. She’s even take her oxygen with her to the pool — and made sure she got in her laps.
She inspired me — and countless others — with her boundless enthusiasm, until we lost her in 2010.
To me, Dana truly embodied what it means to “never give up.”
Whenever anyone tells me they’re inspired by my story, I always think of her — because she’s the woman who inspired me.
When I first came up with the idea of PSNeverGiveUp.com, Andrea messaged me and said her mom would be proud of me and what I’m doing. I can’t think of a more honorable and humbling endorsement than that.
Thank you Andrea — and your family — for your continued support and inspiration. It’s an honor to call you my friends. ❤️
#PSNeverGiveUp