In November 2022, I made a difficult decision to resign from my position as a full-time special education teacher in a middle school. After a tearful Minion-themed goodbye party, I explained to my seventh graders that I needed to put my health first. The decision to leave my teaching job was not easy, but it was necessary for me to better manage my ankylosing spondylitis (AS), a chronic inflammatory disease that primarily affects the spine.
As a teacher, I found it challenging to balance the demands of my job with the needs of my health. Between frequent doctor appointments, monthly infusions, daily aches, and the risk of getting sick at school, I felt overwhelmed by the many variables that came with managing my AS. It became clear to me that I needed to make a change in order to prioritize my well-being.
Transitioning to a hybrid role as a program manager at an education nonprofit allowed me to take better control of my AS management. Working partly from home provided me with the flexibility to attend medical appointments and respond to the symptoms of my disease as needed. This shift not only benefited my ability to carry out my job responsibilities but also improved my overall quality of life.
Since transitioning to my new position, I have discovered several strategies that have helped me effectively manage my AS while on the job. One of the most beneficial tools for me has been using a standing desk. With sacroiliitis, sitting for extended periods can be uncomfortable, so being able to alternate between sitting and standing has been a game-changer for me.
In addition to using a standing desk, I have incorporated stretching into my daily routine. Taking short breaks to stretch helps keep my joints loose and alleviates stiffness and pain. I have found that incorporating yoga poses like the bridge, downward dog, and child’s pose into my day has been particularly helpful in managing my symptoms.
Another key aspect of my AS management at work is taking afternoon walks. Going for a walk each day, especially near the water, provides me with a mental break and helps alleviate stiffness in my spine. Even on days when I am experiencing a flare-up, a short walk can make a significant difference in how I feel.
While I have found success in implementing these strategies, there are still areas that I am working on improving. One challenge I face is advocating for myself and communicating my needs to colleagues and supervisors. AS is often considered an invisible illness, so explaining my condition and requesting accommodations can be difficult, especially in a new work environment.
Additionally, I have encountered situations where my work responsibilities have required me to work late hours and be on the go for extended periods of time. This has made it challenging for me to maintain my daily routine of stretching and walking. I have realized that in order to effectively manage my AS, I need to prioritize my health and establish boundaries that allow me to maintain a sustainable work style.
As I look ahead to the upcoming school year, I am committed to continuing to advocate for myself, seek necessary support and accommodations, and prioritize my health above all else. Managing AS is an ongoing journey, and I am dedicated to finding a balance that allows me to thrive both in my career and in my personal life.
In conclusion, prioritizing my health and well-being has been essential in managing my ankylosing spondylitis while working in a demanding job. By implementing strategies like using a standing desk, incorporating stretching into my daily routine, and taking regular walks, I have been able to effectively manage my symptoms and improve my overall quality of life. Moving forward, I will continue to advocate for myself, seek necessary support, and prioritize my health in order to successfully navigate the challenges of living and working with AS.