How Alana Embraces Life with Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis

Editor’s Note:
At The Patient Story, we share authentic stories that inspire and support individuals facing cancer. Now, we’re broadening our scope to include narratives from those living with other serious health conditions. We’re now focusing on chronic autoimmune diseases such as psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, which are frequently misunderstood and often under-diagnosed, particularly among young adults. Share your story with us and grow our chronic disease patient video library.

In this feature, Alana shares her experience with both conditions, which began in her childhood. Her story delves into treatment hurdles, mental health struggles, and advocacy efforts, offering heartfelt honesty, motivation, and a powerful message: rely on your intuition, accept and love your flaws, and, above all, discover happiness despite the obstacles.

Alana is a vibrant New Yorker who’s navigated the complexities of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis since childhood. Diagnosed with psoriasis at just seven, her early experiences were filled with confusion, itchy and sometimes bleeding spots, and countless doctor visits. Despite the physical discomfort, young Alana found clever ways to cope — frequenting the school nurse, learning to like Band-Aids, and even using her condition as a lighthearted escape from class.

Interviewed by: Taylor Scheib
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

By age nine, Alana was placed on a strict anti-inflammatory diet to help her better manage her psoriasis, learning to read labels while her siblings enjoyed carefree snacks. Adolescence brought new challenges and ways to cope, like covering her skin with arm socks, stacking bracelets, and even wearing wigs to hide scalp psoriasis. But the emotional toll was heavier than the physical. Middle school bullying left scars deeper than her skin, shaking her self-worth.

At 25, Alana had to face both psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis at the same time when she had her first psoriatic arthritis flare-up. Suddenly unable to walk, she found herself bewildered until her father, who had experienced the same thing when he was around the same age, recognized the symptoms. This painful episode was eye-opening, pushing her toward better health decisions.

Despite the hurdles, Alana’s resilience shines. She experimented with holistic diets, tried biologic medications (which treat psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis by targeting specific cells or proteins of the immune system), and experienced intense side effects like migraines and stomach issues. But it wasn’t until she embraced her condition openly that her world shifted. A chance modeling campaign showcased her authentic self — psoriasis and all — on billboards and buses, sparking a newfound confidence.

Mental health became a central focus. Therapy helped, but Alana acknowledges the ongoing struggle with depression, anger, and self-doubt. She emphasizes the importance of listening to your body, advocating for yourself, and finding outlets for emotional release, whether through laughter, crying, or creative expression.

Today, Alana manages her psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis with medication, mindfulness, and self-compassion. She encourages others to self-advocate, trust their instincts, embrace imperfections, and, most importantly, find joy amid the challenges.

Watch Alana’s video to learn about:

• How embracing vulnerability transformed her path to resilience.
• The surprising way her first psoriatic arthritis flare-up mirrored her dad’s experience.
• From middle school bullying to billboards: Alana’s journey to self-love.
• The mental health lessons she learned through years of living with an autoimmune condition.
• Why laughter and tears are both key to Alana’s healing.

• Name:
  • Alana O.
• Age at Diagnosis:
  • 7 (psoriasis)
  • 25 (psoriatic arthritis)
• Diagnosis:
  • Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis
• Symptoms:
  • Itchy and sometimes bleeding patches on skin
  • Joint pain
  • Inflammation
• Treatments:
  • Medication: steroids, biologics
  • Laser treatments

This interview has been edited for clarity. This is not medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider to make treatment decisions.

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