The Funny-Name Disease

I want to thank the Los Angeles Times for the story about ankylosing spondylitis and myself (“Dealing With the Back Pain With a Funny Name” by Pat B. Anderson, May 28).

The story certainly touched a personal note in hundreds of people as expressed in their letters which flooded the Ankylosing Spondylitis Assn. immediately afterward. (Letters continue to arrive daily.) Where others have failed in the past, Anderson succeeded in conveying accurate information about this potentially disabling disease and instilling hope rather than fear in the minds of the readers.

I would like to make one clarification. The article states that the association grew out of a gathering when 16 of Dr. Rodney Bluestone’s AS patients met. In fact, half of those were patients of Dr. Allan Metzger, who was also instrumental in the forming of the organization.

Thank you for the story on behalf of those with ankylosing spondylitis and those who may find an earlier and accurate diagnosis as a result.

JANE BRUCKEL

President

Ankylosing Spondylitis Assn.

Sherman Oaks