September Marks both National Pain Awareness & Arthritis Awareness Month
Not Rare, But Rarely Diagnosed
Spondyloarthritis affects over half a million Canadians – more than rheumatoid arthritis, MS, and ALS combined. Shockingly, however, the average time before receiving a diagnosis is an unacceptable 7-10 years, leaving so many dismissed, misdiagnosed, and left in pain.
Millions live with SpA.
Most don’t know it yet.
Every September, during Arthritis Awareness Month and Pain Awareness Month, we shine a light on what it means to live with spondyloarthritis (SpA) and chronic pain, providing information, resources, and support.
Matthew’s Ride for Monica:
In the early morning hours of August 31, Matthew took on a heartfelt challenge cycling 45 miles in honour of his wife Monica’s 45th birthday. Through his ride, he not only raised awareness of the painful reality of ankylosing spondylitis (A.S) but an incredible $47,500 – and still counting – to support those living with this debilitating disease.
As Matthew shared, “this ride is for my wife, Monica. Each mile represents more than just a distance—it’s a tribute to her courage and the daily battles she faces. I hope this ride brings more awareness to A.S and inspires others to support the cause.”
The Canadian Spondylitis Association (CSA) is deeply grateful to the Andrade Family and the many generous donors who supported Matthew’s Ride for Monica.
Your support will help the over 500,000 Canadians, like Monica, who are bravely fighting this autoimmune, debilitating disease.
If you would like to contribute to Matthew’s campaign, please consider making a donation below

Petition for Access to New Treatments
Did you know that when compared to other provinces, BC lags significantly in offering treatment options? We need your help in engaging the BC Ministry of Health to respond and take action to this inequitability gap. Anyone can sign the petition, you do not need to be a BC resident. It takes all of us to make collective action possible.
Pain Management Journal
Suffering in pain? You’re not alone – Take back control by tracking and trending your chronic pain. Our NEW Pain Management and Wellness Journals are the ultimate tool, approved by medical professionals and designed by patients to help YOU understand your pain patterns, triggers, and develop effective pain management strategies for YOU!
100% of proceeds will go to charity.

Webinar Registrations:
We have new webinars coming soon led by our expert panels on the topics of Pain Management, Alternative Therapies and Access to Treatments. Don’t miss these opportunity to engage with leading professionals and enhance your understanding of these critical topics!
In the meantime, we encourage you to explore our past webinar sessions to enrich your knowledge and stay engaged with the latest insights.

Matthew’s Ride for Monica:
To raise awareness for ankylosing spondylitis (AxSpA/AS), Matthew Andrade is undertaking a 45-mile bike ride, inspired by his wife Monica, who battles with this debilitating disease daily. Scheduled for August 31, 2024, the ride will cover approximately 75 km, highlighting the struggles of over 500,000 Canadians living with AxSpA. The effort aims to boost awareness and fundraise for better support and care for those affected by this condition.

Petition for Access to New Treatments
Did you know that when compared to other provinces, BC lags significantly in offering treatment options? We need your help in engaging the BC Ministry of Health to respond and take action to this inequitability gap. Anyone can sign the petition, you do not need to be a BC resident. It takes all of us to make collective action possible.
Pain Management Journal
Suffering in pain? You’re not alone – Take back control by tracking and trending your chronic pain. Our NEW Pain Management and Wellness Journals are the ultimate tool, approved by medical professionals and designed by patients to help YOU understand your pain patterns, triggers, and develop effective pain management strategies for YOU!
100% of proceeds will go to charity.

Webinar Registrations:
We have new webinars coming soon led by our expert panels on the topics of Pain Management, Alternative Therapies and Access to Treatments. Don’t miss these opportunity to engage with leading professionals and enhance your understanding of these critical topics!
In the meantime, we encourage you to explore our past webinar sessions to enrich your knowledge and stay engaged with the latest insights.