Fight the Fusion Logo

Have you seen the main art piece/logo for Fight the Fusion?
If you haven't, please check it out.

It's a little busy for a basic *logo*, but I really love having it as the main image associated with the fundraiser.

It is a simple, almost cartoonish, spine and pelvis. Going up the spine are leaves, and bursting from one or both of the hips are flowers and leaves and everything beautiful. Each piece is slightly different - because every single person with Ankylosing Spondylitis or any form of arthritis or spondyloarthropy is different. I have made some personalized pieces using the individual's favourite florals.
There are, however, a few constants in the greenery. At the very top of the spine is a little seedling. For me it is one of the universal symbols of hope; of new life, new beginnings, and a future.
There is one other symbol featured somewhere in each piece. It is not necessarily in a specific spot, but it is there. It is a dandelion with its seeds floating outward. I have seen this particular symbol used in various health awareness groups: rare diseases, mental health awareness, cancer, autoimmune disorders, lupus, etc...
This is a timeless symbol of hope.

Each spine will vary, the flowers will vary, the vines and greenery will vary. Each piece, though, will include the seedling at the top of the spine, and a dandelion somewhere.

Arthritis and Spondyloarthropies do not have to represent this terrible image of pain, suffering, and loss of mobility. Fight the Fusion is about finding ways to remain active, finding treatments and medications that help ease our pain so we can live our lives fully. It is about seeing beauty through pain. It is about cultivating and nurturing our health, in whatever way we can.
Help us spread awareness for the growing numbers of people diagnosed with these painful illnesses. Not only are numbers rising, but people are being diagnosed at very young ages, with many requiring joint replacements in their late 20s and early 30s.
Help us find better ways to help slow down the fusion process. Join us from April 27 until May 4. Please share and let your friends know - even if you cannot donate - to participate by showing a picture of yourselves being active and engaging your spine!