I was diagnosed with mixed connective tissue disease as a teenager, and like most young people facing a chronic illness, I worried about how it would shape my life. School, friendships, career – everything felt uncertain to me. And as I entered high school and later college one of my biggest uncertainties was dating. How would I ever feel comfortable enough to share every part of myself with someone else? Not just the surface-level details, but the difficult, unspoken realities of living with a chronic illness. The fatigue, the pain, the insurance battles, the unpredictability of it all. Would someone…
Author: Brianna Reeves
Brianna Reeves
Brianna Ramos is a 27 year old living in the Tampa Bay area with her husband, Max, two cats, and two dogs. Diagnosed with mixed connective tissue disease at 13, she has been deeply involved with the Arthritis Foundation, currently serving as the Event Chair for the Jingle Bell Run and a member of the Local Leadership Board. She also serves as State Advocacy Chair and advocates for policy changes to improve healthcare access and life for those with invisible illnesses. Through her platform, “That Girl With Arthritis,” Brianna provides resources and support for those living with all forms of arthritis and other chronic illnesses.