My name is Jessica Gilson and I am 21 years old. I was diagnosed with AS just under a year ago. My father has psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, and my Aunt and Cousin on my Dad's side have been diagnosed with AS for about 4 years.

I'm currently in the Navy. I enjoy being outdoors, especially by the ocean or mountains. I also love reading, writing, theater and art, but what I love above all these things are music and helping people. So my ultimate dream is to become a Music Therapist. AS has helped me to become even more compassionate, and given me an even greater desire to help. So, although it is definitely tough at times, I am determined to learn from it all I can and to do all I can to help educate others and myself on the affects of this disease. So let the education begin!