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Inflamed Sisters Thriving Summit & Gala (2026)

Join us for our 4th Annual Inflamed Sisters Thriving (IST) Thrive in Your Skin Summit & Gala.

Day 1 – Thriving in Your Skin Summit

Friday, July 24, 2026

Day 2 -Thrive in Your Skin Gala

Saturday, July 25, 2026

Location: Junior League of Greater Lakeland

Lakeland, FL

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Thrive in Your Skin - Our Mission

Thrive in Your Skin is a transformative, patient‑centered experience designed to empower women living with autoimmune and inflammatory skin conditions such as hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, eczema, and other chronic illnesses that profoundly affect daily life. Hosted by Inflamed Sisters Thriving, the event creates a safe, affirming space where women can learn, connect, and reclaim confidence in their bodies and health journeys.

Through storytelling, expert insights, and community dialogue, the program highlights the resilience, strength, and advocacy that define the chronic illness community. Thrive in Your Skin ultimately serves as a powerful reminder that women living with chronic conditions deserve visibility, compassion, and the opportunity to thrive—not in spite of their conditions, but alongside them.

EVENT MENU

About the IST Summit (Day 1)

Date: Friday, July 24, 2026

Day 1 of the 4th Annual Summit is a powerful, community‑centered experience designed to uplift women living with autoimmune and inflammatory skin conditions such as HS, lupus, psoriasis, and eczema. The day features inspiring personal stories, expert insights, and meaningful conversations that highlight the emotional, physical, and mental health challenges faced by chronic illness warriors.

Through keynote talks, patient advocate panels, mental health perspectives, and health equity discussions, attendees gain education, validation, and practical tools to navigate their journeys with confidence. The Summit creates a safe, supportive space where women can connect, be seen, and feel empowered to thrive in the skin they’re in.

Come for the empowerment, leave with a thriving sisterhood.

Attire – Smart Business Casual (Purple is a warrior’s favorite color, but not required)

Attendee Registration closes on Friday, July 17, 2026.

Vendor and Sponsor fees must be paid in full by Friday, June 26, 2026.

There are no refunds.

About the IST Gala (Day 2)

Date: Saturday, July 25, 2026

Day 2 culminates in the elegant Thrive in Your Skin Gala, a celebratory evening honoring the strength, resilience, and achievements of women living with autoimmune and inflammatory skin conditions. The Gala brings together warriors, advocates, healthcare partners, and supporters for a night of recognition, connection, and joy.

Guests experience a meaningful awards ceremony that highlights individuals and organizations making a powerful impact in the chronic illness community. The evening continues with an engaging auction that supports IST’s mission, followed by music, dancing, and entertainment that create an atmosphere of celebration and unity.

The Gala serves as a reminder that thriving includes moments of joy, visibility, and community—offering attendees a beautiful space to be celebrated, uplifted, and inspired.

Attire – Formal / Gala (Purple is a warrior’s favorit color, but not required.)

Attendee Registration closes on Friday, July 17, 2026.

Vendor and Sponsor fees must be paid in full by Friday, June 26, 2026.

Timeliness of sponsor payment will determine placement at Summit and Gala. Payment plans are available for vendors.

There are no refunds.

 

Why Attend?

The Thrive in Your Skin Summit & Gala is a uniquely patient‑centered event that offers invaluable insight into the lived experiences of women navigating autoimmune and inflammatory skin conditions. For attendees who do not personally live with these conditions, the Summit provides a rare opportunity to hear authentic stories, understand real challenges, and witness the resilience of a community often overlooked in traditional healthcare and research spaces. This firsthand perspective deepens empathy, strengthens cultural competency, and enhances the ability to serve patients with compassion and clarity.

Healthcare providers and clinical researchers gain meaningful benefits by attending. The event offers direct access to patient voices, real‑world experiences, and nuanced conversations that rarely surface in clinical settings. These insights can inform more equitable care, improve communication, and inspire research that reflects the true needs of those living with HS, lupus, psoriasis, eczema, and other chronic conditions. By engaging with patients in a supportive, non‑clinical environment, professionals can build trust, strengthen partnerships, and contribute to more patient‑driven innovation.

Business owners, advocates, and community leaders also find tremendous value in attending. The Summit & Gala creates space to connect with a passionate, engaged community and explore opportunities for collaboration, sponsorship, and impact. Whether you’re committed to health equity, community wellness, or inclusive business practices, this event offers a powerful platform to learn, support, and contribute. Above all, attending demonstrates a shared commitment to uplifting women living with chronic illness and ensuring their voices remain at the center of every conversation.

Who Should Attend?

The 4th Annual Summit & Gala is designed first and foremost for women living with autoimmune and inflammatory skin conditions such as HS, lupus, psoriasis, and eczema. If you’re seeking community, understanding, and empowerment, this patient‑centered weekend was created with you in mind.

This event is also an invaluable experience for healthcare providers, clinical researchers, and wellness professionals who want to deepen their understanding of real patient experiences. By hearing directly from women living with chronic conditions, professionals gain insights that strengthen empathy, improve care, and inspire more patient‑driven research and innovation.

Business owners, advocates, caregivers, and community partners will also find meaningful opportunities to learn, connect, and support a powerful movement centered on visibility, equity, and healing. Whether you’re looking to collaborate, sponsor, or simply stand in solidarity, the Summit & Gala offers a unique space to engage with a passionate, resilient community.

IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENTS

 Early bird special will last until 5/31/2026.

Become a Sponsor or Vendor

Vendor, Sponsor & Speaker Opportunities

Here’s how your support makes a difference:

Empowering Warriors

Your sponsorship funds initiatives that provide trusted resources, a supportive community, and health equity alliances, enabling women and men to thrive both personally and professionally.

Advancing Patient Advocacy

We are committed to fostering collaborations that ensure equitable access to healthcare and support for all women facing chronic illnesses. Your support is crucial in driving these transformative initiatives forward.

Creating a Supportive Community
We aim to foster a safe space where warriors can connect, share their experiences, and find strength in resilience. Your contribution helps us build resources and environments where every woman feels understood and empowered.

We offer several sponsorship tiers, allowing you to choose the level that best aligns with your organization’s goals and values. Each tier provides various benefits, including presenting, booth space, brand exposure and collaborations.

The tiers are as follows:
Vendor – $250
Community Leader – $2,500
Impact Leader – $5,000
Strategic Partner – $10,000
Advocacy Partner – $25,000

We genuinely appreciate your consideration of this opportunity. Attached, you will find a one-pager and contract summary for your review. We are eager to explore the potential of partnering with you to create unforgettable experiences that
empower women to thrive

    • For inquiries, email info@inflamedsistersthriving.org or contact by phone or text (813) 421-2475
    • To have a personalized proposal emailed to you select the link, Access IST Summit & Gala Sponsor Proposal here.
    • Payments will be made on this website confirming you have viewed, read and signed the proposal. We use the Zeffy platform embedded in this website to avoid transaction fees for our attendees and donors.

    Speaker & Sponsor Line-Up

    Speakers

    2026 Speakers

    Headshot picture of Catina Morrison. Brown-skinned professional woman in grey and purple suit, purple earrings, and natural braided hair.

    Catina Morrison

    RN, BSN, EMBA

    President, Inflamed Sisters Thriving Inc

    CEO, Nurse Loves Essentials LLC

    Picture of Dr. Lashawn Lee-Weaver, Brown-skinned female doctor with white doctor's coat with tite on jacket including OB-GYN

    Dr. LaShawn Weaver-Lee

    Board-Certified OB/GYN Hospitalist

    CEO & Founder theplantdoc Health & Behavior Coaching

    Headshot of Ashley Nicole. Brown-skinned female fitness professional in purple and black workout attire with shoulder length straight natural hair with a Apple watch on.

    Ashley Nicole

    Autoimmune Coach & Master Fitness & Nutrition Trainer

    CEO, RA Warrior Fitness

    Vice President, Inflamed Sisters Thriving Inc

    Dr. Saarah Nicolas

    Psychologist

    CEO, Mindful Roots Counseling

    Gabrielle Davis

    Corporate Communications Lead and Lupus/Patient Advocate

    Chaquira Andrade

    LCSW, HS Patient Advocate

    Sponsors

    TrueBlue Clinical Research – Community Partner

    The Thrive in Your Skin Summit & Gala is a uniquely patient‑centered event that offers invaluable insight into the lived experiences of women navigating autoimmune and inflammatory skin conditions. For attendees who do not personally live with these conditions, the Summit provides a rare opportunity to hear authentic stories, understand real challenges, and witness the resilience of a community often overlooked in traditional healthcare and research spaces. This firsthand perspective deepens empathy, strengthens cultural competency, and enhances the ability to serve patients with compassion and clarity.

    Healthcare providers and clinical researchers gain meaningful benefits by attending. The event offers direct access to patient voices, real‑world experiences, and nuanced conversations that rarely surface in clinical settings. These insights can inform more equitable care, improve communication, and inspire research that reflects the true needs of those living with HS, lupus, psoriasis, eczema, and other chronic conditions. By engaging with patients in a supportive, non‑clinical environment, professionals can build trust, strengthen partnerships, and contribute to more patient‑driven innovation.

    Business owners, advocates, and community leaders also find tremendous value in attending. The Summit & Gala creates space to connect with a passionate, engaged community and explore opportunities for collaboration, sponsorship, and impact. Whether you’re committed to health equity, community wellness, or inclusive business practices, this event offers a powerful platform to learn, support, and contribute. Above all, attending demonstrates a shared commitment to uplifting women living with chronic illness and ensuring their voices remain at the center of every conversation.

    Nurse Loves Essentials Logo contains Nurse with a stethoscope forming the U in Nurse and a heart as the V in Loves followed by Essentials.Nurse Loves Essentials – Community Partner

    Catina Morrison: Championing Health Equity and Empowerment through Nurse Loves Essentials

    Catina Morrison is a Registered Nurse, healthcare strategist, and founder of Nurse Loves Essentials LLC, a consulting business dedicated to advancing health equity for women with autoimmune and chronic illnesses. Inspired by her personal journey with rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, and endometriosis, Catina established Nurse Loves Essentials to address the gaps in healthcare access, equity, and outcomes for marginalized communities.

    Through her consulting work, Catina leverages over 24 years of healthcare experience to drive systemic change. She partners with organizations to create inclusive research practices, improve clinical data quality, and design equitable healthcare solutions. Nurse Loves Essentials also serves as a platform for education and advocacy, amplifying the voices of women living with autoimmune diseases and empowering them to reclaim their health and wellness.

    Catina’s passion for promoting resilience and equity extends beyond consulting. She provides speaking engagements, workshops, and resources that inspire individuals and organizations to embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion in healthcare. Her work continues to break barriers, ensuring that every woman has the opportunity to thrive, both personally and professionally.

    RA Warrior Fitness logo

    RA Warrior Fitness – Community Partner

    Ashley Nicole, the dynamic founder and master trainer of RA Warrior Fitness, epitomizes strength and resilience. As an NFPT-certified professional in personal training, fitness nutrition, endurance, and strength training, she not only leads by example but also educates and inspires. Her personal journey with rheumatoid arthritis has not only shaped her character but also her career, driving her to develop tailored approaches that prioritize holistic well-being.

    Established on January 27, 2020, RA Warrior Fitness is more than a fitness program; it’s a movement dedicated to empowering women with autoimmune conditions. Under Ashley’s guidance, the organization focuses on enhancing life quality by alleviating joint discomfort and boosting energy. This is achieved through a unique blend of faith, food, and fitness. Ashley’s mantra, “Making RHEUM to RISE,” encapsulates her philosophy of overcoming limitations and reaching new heights of personal achievement.

    Ashley’s passions extend beyond the gym. A devout follower of Jesus, she cherishes her family, relishes in the joys of fitness and food, and is an avid football and music enthusiast. Her remarkable achievements include competing as a professional bodybuilder with prestigious organizations such as the Global Bodybuilding Organization (GBO), Natural Fit Federation (NFF), and ON-X Naturals. Furthermore, her expertise and impact in the fitness industry have been recognized through her participation in the Women’s Health and Men’s Health Strength in Diversity Initiative.

    A respected figure in health and fitness, Ashley has graced the pages of Women’s Health Magazine and garnered accolades from the Arthritis Foundation, Inflamed Sisters Thriving, Inc., among other notable recognitions. She one of the courageous co-authors of I Am Worthy: Empowering Stories and Affirmations to Encourage Healing and Resilience.

    Originally from Florence, Alabama, Ashley now brings her vibrant spirit and invaluable expertise to Dallas, Texas. Embracing her roots and new surroundings alike, she fondly describes herself as a “Bama girl living in a Texas world” – a testament to her adaptability and joyous embrace of life’s journey.

    Camicorp – Community Partner

    At CamiCorp, we are passionate about transforming workplaces through strategic, inclusive, and human-centered HR solutions. Founded by Camilla Young, MBA—a seasoned HR leader with over 20 years of expertise across industries—CamiCorp is dedicated to helping startups, entrepreneurs, and small businesses build resilient, engaged, and high-performing teams.

    Our Mission
    CamiCorp empowers businesses to become strategic, mitigate risks, and foster equitable opportunities for Women of Color (WOC) and Women of Color with chronic illnesses. We aim to create work environments where diverse talent can thrive and contribute meaningfully.

    What We Do
    CamiCorp offers a comprehensive suite of HR consulting services tailored to the unique needs of businesses.

    Why Choose CamiCorp?
    CamiCorp goes beyond traditional HR consulting by integrating empathy and innovation into every solution. We understand the unique challenges faced by startups, entrepreneurs, and small businesses, as well as the value of inclusivity in driving success. Our tailored approach ensures measurable results, whether it’s improving workforce engagement, streamlining HR processes, or enhancing workplace culture.

    Partner with CamiCorp to unlock your organization’s full potential while championing diversity and inclusion. Together, we’ll build a future where talent knows no limits.

    Vendors

    2026 Vendor

     

    Community Partner Sponsor

     

    Venue, Hotels, & Parking

    The Venue

    Junior League of Greater Lakeland

    Address: 90 Lake Morton Dr, Lakeland, FL 33801 (Directions)

    Parking is available behind the building.

    The Junior League of Greater Lakeland, Inc. is committed to promoting overall wellness of body, mind, and spirit for women and children in our community, through our own community efforts and by partnering with other non-profit organizations in the Greater Lakeland area with a wellness vision.

    The Junior League of Greater Lakeland, Inc. has as its purpose: to promote voluntarism, to develop the potential of its members for voluntary participation in community affairs, to demonstrate the effectiveness of trained volunteers, and to support and promote voluntarism as an essential component of our society.

    The Junior League of Greater Lakeland, Inc. further recognizes the critical role of the voluntary sector in experimenting, demonstrating, innovating, and advocating for needed change, monitoring the public sector objectively and impartially influencing governmental program development, and providing those services unavailable through government programs.

    Photos courtesy Junior League of Greater Lakeland website and Wallywoo Films.

     

    Recommended Airports

    For guests traveling by plane to attend the event, the following airports are recommended.

    Tampa International Airport (Closest and Highly Recommended)

    4100 George J Bean Pkwy, Tampa, FL 33607 · (813) 870-8700

    Orlando International Airport

     1 Jeff Fuqua Blvd, Orlando, FL 32827

    Recommended Hotels

    Please note there are no blocked rooms or affiliations with the following hotels, and no guarantees for availability. Inflamed Sisters Thriving Inc is not responsible for providing accommodations; however, we are supplying a list of locations that you can choose at your own discretion.

    Email Camilla@inflamedsistersthriving.org for details on the Inflamed Sisters Thriving Hotel recommendations.

    Event Schedule

    Friday, July 24, 2026: Summit (11:30 am ET – 4:30 pm ET)

    11:40am-11:45
    Welcome

    11:45am-12pm
    Thrive in Your Skin
    A patient advocate shares her journey with hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) and multiple chronic illnesses, Highlighting unseen pain, resilience, and advocacy

    12pm-12:30pm
    Patient Advocate Panel
    A discussion on skin and inflammatory diseases, mental health impact, self-confidence, relationships, and the journey to thrive (HS, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, vitiligo, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), lupus)

    12:30pm-1:30pm
    Chef-Prepared Lunch

    1:30pm-2:15
    HS Patient Advocate Program

    2:20-2:45pm
    Lifestyle Changes, Well-Being & Your Skin

    2:45pm-3:00pm
    Break

    3:00pm-3:20
    Thriving in the Skin You’re In
    A mental health perspective of skin conditions impact on mental and emotional health

    3:20pm-3:50pm
    Health Advocate Panel
    Professionals share their experiences with skin and inflammatory diseases, what helped them to thrive personally and professionally, and how they support others

    3:50-4:20pm
    Keynote Speaker / Presentation(TBD)

    Saturday, July 25, 2026, Thrive in Your Skin Gala (5:30 pm ET – 10:00 pm ET)

    5:45 pm – 6 pm
    Welcome

    6 pm – 6:30 pm
    Keynote Speaker / Presentation (TBD)

    6:30 pm – 7:30 pm
    Chef-Prepared Dinner

    7:30 pm – 8:00 pm
    Awards Ceremony

    8 pm -10 pm
    Dancing and Entertainment

    Register

    Registration closes Friday, 7/17/2026 at 11:55pm ET. Email info@inflamedsistersthriving.org for questions or technical difficulty. Registration is completed after purchase.  There are no refunds.

    FAQ

    Is this event only for women?

    No. Men are welcome to attend the Summit & Gala. Men and women face similar challenges striving to manage their health and business successfully. This event will benefit both men and women providing strategies for health and wellness, marketing, networking and collaboration.

    What should I be prepared for?

    Be prepared to be inspired, educated and motivated to stop hiding and start thriving in all aspects of health, wellness and business. Expect many gems to be shared, so be prepared to take notes. We encourage you to be open to networking and getting to know others within the chronic illness community, as well as local and national businesses. We encourage building community and seeking opportunities to collaborate and grow together.

    What is the suggested dress code?

    • Friday, July 24, 2026 – Smart Business Casual
    • Saturday, July 25, 2026 – Formal, purple preferred, but not required

    Can the registration be transferred to a someone else?

    Yes – a minimum of 2 weeks notice must be provided in writing.  Please email us at with the person’s full name and your receipt details. There are no refunds for all purchases.

    Where can I find information on the venue/accommodations?

    Your payment does not include the cost of accommodations. You will need to secure your own hotel accommodations. The venue location and a list of recommended hotels will be provided above and linked here. We recommend you consider a local airbnb option as well.