An Ohio, Colerain woman suffering from a rare disease is lacing up her skates for awareness.
Once an avid cheerleader and dancer, DeA’na Clark was diagnosed 12 years ago with Behcet’s disease — a rare, chronic, auto-inflammatory disorder that attacks blood vessels in the body with ulcers.
Since her diagnosis, she has traded her pom-poms for skates.
Clark said the skating rink is her way to cope with treatments while still getting exercise and having a good time. Through skating, she said she plans to bring awareness and help fund research for a cure.
“I’ve come to realize that I’m my loudest advocate,” Clark said. “I just want people who suffer with Behcet’s to work and not be in pain and find something to control the flair-ups that we have.”
Clark is hosting an event for adult skaters to benefit the American Behcet’s Disease Association. There will be a spades tournament, door prizes, raffles, a “Step & Repeat” booth for photos and a music by DJ Narsistic.
The event takes place 11 p.m. to 3 a.m. on Aug. 8 at The Skatin Place in Colerain.
Stay Connected
Sign up for updates straight to your inbox.