Marcy's Story

In May 2018, Marcy was diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis at the age of 38. This diagnosis came six months after she started having joint pain, throbbing and swelling of the fingers on both hands. By the time she saw her doctor, her pain had progressed. She now had sharp pains her left wrist and shooting nerve pain up her arm to her shoulder. When her doctor learned that Marcy’s mother has both psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, it didn’t take long for a diagnosis. 

Marcy learned that most insurers require patients to try and fail certain drugs before they move on to other medications like biologics. Because of her unique field of work, this traditional step therapy was not a treatment option. Instead, her doctor worked hard to get approval for a biologic immunosuppressant to reduce Marcy’s arthritis inflammation.  

In her research about step therapy, Marcy learned about the Arthritis Foundation and the work they do to fundraise and raise awareness for arthritis research and advocacy. She also became part of the Foundation’s Live Yes! Arthritis Network and recently became the leader for Miami-Dade County. This group of Arthritis Warriors has been encouraging and uplifting for Marcy as she began her journey of living with psoriatic arthritis. As a Live Yes! Arthritis Network leader, Marcy looks forward to helping make a difference for all patients who battle arthritis.