About Katy

After ten years of chronic illness, Katy was diagnosed with Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome in 2013.

Before receiving her diagnosis, Katy saw dozens of doctors about her painful condition and underwent a variety of unsuccessful treatments. Her gallbladder was removed and she underwent two exploratory surgeries to remove parts of her rib, surgical adhesions, and granulomas. Many patients with chronic illness suffer similarly difficult and lonely paths to their diagnosis.

Katy founded Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome Help (SMASH) in 2020 to make it easier for those who suffer from SMA Syndrome to learn more, find their diagnosis, create a treatment plan, and become advocates.