▶ Watch: Erin’s Journey with Psoriatic Arthritis
A real and powerful story of living, growing, and thriving with psoriatic arthritis.
About the Conversation
In this video, Brenda Delodder, Executive Director of the Canadian Spondyloarthritis Association (CSA), sits down with Erin, an inspiring advocate, mother, and individual who has lived with psoriatic arthritis (PsA) since childhood.
Erin’s journey highlights the real challenges faced by many Canadians living with psoriatic arthritis — from years of uncertainty before diagnosis to managing symptoms, motherhood, and building a fulfilling life while navigating chronic illness.
“You just have to jump in and do it. The more knowledge you can arm yourself with early, the easier it becomes.”
— Erin, on taking control of her psoriatic arthritis journey
Erin’s Journey: From Diagnosis to Advocacy
- A long road to diagnosis: Erin began showing symptoms around age nine, but it took several years — and countless doctor visits — before receiving a clear diagnosis of psoriatic arthritis at 14.
- Strength through challenge: Through pain, fatigue, and self-doubt, she stayed determined to live fully — finishing school, working with children, and later becoming a wife and mother.
- Learning self-advocacy early: Erin’s physician encouraged her to take an active role in her own care, helping her gain confidence and independence in managing her condition.
- Navigating motherhood with PsA: Balancing self-care with parenting wasn’t easy, but Erin learned to listen to her body and accept that rest is a vital part of resilience.
- Coping with complications: Later in life, Erin developed uveitis, an inflammatory eye condition linked to spondyloarthritis. Her experience shows how chronic illness evolves — and how strength and adaptation grow alongside it.
Lessons from Erin’s Experience
Erin’s story offers powerful insights for anyone living with psoriatic arthritis or other spondyloarthritis conditions:
- Trust your instincts – If something feels wrong, keep asking questions until you get answers.
- Build a support network – Surround yourself with people who understand and uplift you.
- Prioritize self-care – Resting and managing your energy are key to long-term wellbeing.
- Embrace your resilience – You are more than your diagnosis; your story and strength matter.
“My diagnosis doesn’t define me. It’s part of my story, but it doesn’t decide who I am.”
— Erin