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AnneMarie’s Story 

AnneMarie has a passion for dance, and she feared arthritis would prevent her from pursuing her love. She persevered and became a two-year member of her college dance team

AnneMarie McComb was diagnosed with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) at the age of 16. Her symptoms started in her skin, but quickly spread to her joints, including her fingers, jaw, wrists, ankles, hips and knees. AnneMarie had always had a passion for dance and was a member of her high school drill team. Though she feared this disease would prevent her from pursuing her love for dance, she persevered and became a two-year member of her college dance team at Southern Methodist University. She also was an active member of her college sorority.  

AnneMarie graduated college cum laude and then went on to graduate from Baylor Law School in 2018. After passing the bar exam, she began practicing law as a civil litigation attorney with a firm in downtown Austin. Though she no longer dances, she now sings in her local church’s praise band. 

“I have been on biologic medications for many years and have had steroid injections,” says AnnMarie. “Though I am currently in near remission, the past few years have been far from easy. I owe everything to my amazing family and friends, who have loved and supported me through it all.”