Hope for HS is a 100% volunteer, grass-roots, patient and caregiver directed non-profit organization, supporting and advocating for HS patients since 2013. All of the work we do is accomplished through volunteers who freely give their time to advance our mission. We asked our volunteers to share why they are passionate about Hope for HS.
Participating in Hope for HS support groups made it possible for me to open up about my diagnosis with friends, which has led to people close to me getting the diagnosis and treatment that they needed. Sandra Guilbault
Hope for HS provides something incredible and needed for people living with HS: a community of hope of support. I’m honored that I can help support Hope for HS in bringing people together. Steve Daveluy, MD
It is a unique opportunity to engage with providers and patients who are passionate and have the same goal of improving outcomes for HS. It allows a platform for growth and understanding of HS from all perspectives. It creates a great environment to create support for patients who may feel isolated due to this condition. Tara Jaleel, MD
I can remember a time when I’d never met or spoken with another HS patient. Being a part of this growing community where patients are able to connect with one and another and share vital information is some of the most important work I’ve ever done. Athena Gierbolini
“I am very proud to be a part of Hope for HS. Their commitment to our community, passion and support to our patients allow us to bring a voice of hope to all the people who suffer with this condition and their caregivers”. Rita Pichardo, MD
I know as a clinician that I’m limited by the time required to see patients individually. Hope for HS is a way to reach and educate a larger community. People with HS have a lot to gain from learning from and supporting each other, and it also gives me an opportunity to continue to learn and understand how to support the patients with HS that I care for better. Chris Sayed, MD
For 14 years, I searched for a diagnosis of what was wrong with me. I felt completely alone. Hope for HS educates and brings awareness to HS so that stories like mine don’t become the norm anymore. If I can help one person from not knowing, or feeling alone, it is all worth it. Eris Hilburn
I love volunteering with Hope for HS because they have created a community composed of doctors, patients and volunteers who are passionate about increasing disease awareness, education, improving quality of life, and creating a safe space for patients. I believe that Hope for HS is a wonderful resource that responds to the needs for the HS patient community. It has been a privilege to be a part of a community that uplifts, supports and brings hope for the future of HS. María del Mar Meléndez-González, MD
Building a community for people people living with HS is the most rewarding aspect of volunteering with Hope for HS. Angela Dresselhaus