I was told I would never be able to play sports when I was first diagnosed. I was told I would have to shave my head and only eat gluten-free foods. I was told other kids would laugh at the “polkadots” on my skin. I was told I would never be normal. At age 5, I was diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis. Everyone hears the word “arthritis” and fills with shock. How can a five year old have something only older people carry? How can you develop that so young? I agree, how could this have happened to me? I wasn’t fair. In 2003, at age two, I developed a rare autoimmune disease that went unnoticed. It spread throughout my body; making it work twice as hard. (causing pain in my joints.) Then, my skin started producing twice as many skin cells. (bing bing bing! psoriasis!) It was not a fun experience to say the least. After years and years of bullying, mental health issues, and terrible pain, my mom said enough. I was put into my first dance class at age ten. If you have a background in performing arts, you would know this is a very late stage to begin dance in. Your body is closer to fully developing. This means your chances of gaining any flexibility are slim. However, I didn’t let that stop me. My first day of dance class I remember wearing a black leotard, leggings, and a long sleeve shirt so the other kids wouldn’t see my skin. It was the first time in forever I felt so free. I could move to the best of my ability, in my own way. No kids were pointing or laughing. For once, I felt like I was just— me. I continued dance from there for 10 years at the same studio. I competed annually with a team of girls my age and an amazing group of dance instructors. I eventually became comfortable enough to share my story; to be in my own skin. I was never made fun of at the studio. It was my escape from the hardships that no ten year old should have ever experienced. I felt so alive. At the end of my senior year in high school, I talked to the dance instructor who taught me everything I knew. He wanted me as a teacher at the studio. I gladly accepted and went on to teach ballet, tap, jazz, lyrical, and improv-based classes. I taught workshops, guest-choreographed, and overall had fun! In conclusion, the answer is dance. Dance was and still is my favorite hobby. The amount of confidence and maturity I reached within while dancing made me who I am today. It made me realize I am more than what is on the outside of my body. I found myself, and I will never stop being grateful for what dance gave me.