Begins In
Day(s)
:
Hour(s)
:
Minute(s)
:
Second(s)
Thrive in Your Skin - Our Mission
Thrive in Your Skin is a transformative, patient‑centered experience designed to empower women and men living with autoimmune diseases and inflammatory skin conditions, such as, hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, eczema, and vitiligo, to name a few. Hosted by Inflamed Sisters Thriving, the event creates a safe, affirming space to learn, connect, and reclaim confidence in your body and health journey.
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 anyone living with chronic conditions deserve visibility, compassion, and the opportunity to thrive.
Why Attend?
You’ll walk away with:
- Breakthrough insights — Learn from top experts who are redefining how we understand inflammation, skin health, and whole‑body wellness.
- Actionable strategies — Discover practical tools to reduce inflammation, restore balance, and thrive in your skin—physically, emotionally, and mentally.
- Community connection — Surround yourself with people who get it. People who are healing, growing, and rising—just like you.
- A night to celebrate — The Gala honors resilience, beauty, and the power of thriving. Expect elegance, inspiration, and a renewed sense of possibility.
When?
Day 1 - Saturday, August 1, 2026, 11:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. ET
Day 2 - Sunday, August 2, 2026, 5:30 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. ET
Where?
Junior League of Greater Lakeland in Lakeland, Florida
EVENT MENU
About the IST Summit (Day 1)
Date: Saturday, August 1, 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.
Attendee Registration closes on Friday, July 24, 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: Sunday, August 2, 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 24, 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.
Speaker & Sponsor Line-Up
Sponsored By:
Incyte is a global biopharmaceutical company that is redefining what’s possible in biopharmaceutical innovation. Through deep scientific expertise and a relentless focus on patients, Incyte has built an established portfolio of first-in-class medicines and an extensive portfolio of next-generation medicines across key franchises: Hematology, Oncology and Inflammation and Autoimmunity, including Dermatology.
At UCB, we believe that everyone deserves to live the best life that they can. That’s why – as a global biopharmaceutical leader - we’re focused on creating valuable solutions that improve the lives of people living with neurological and autoimmune conditions.
Our foundational commitment to crafting sustainable solutions and delivering medicines that aim to improve lives is at the core of all that we do, as we live our purpose each day - bringing together the expertise, talent, tools and scientific ingenuity needed to pursue what’s right for people living with severe disease and society, and making informed choices to improve health equity and minimize our environmental footprint.
Living with HS can be stressful—and managing your HS symptoms can take a lot out of you. The HS Advocate Program is all about helping our community learn more about hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) — what it is, how it affects the body, and what steps can lead to earlier diagnosis and better treatment.
UCB is committed to partnering with the medical community and patient advocacy groups to support everyone with HS.
UCB is proud to contribute to advancing the understanding of HS, addressing the unmet needs of those living with the disease, and raising standards of care across a range of IL-17 mediated diseases. To learn more about UCB’s commitment to patients impacted by dermatologic diseases, visit UCB-USA.com/innovation/dermatology.
TrueBlue Clinical Research - Community Partner
Founded in 2006 in the Greater Tampa Bay area, TrueBlue Clinical Research is a privately owned clinical trial site specializing in multi-specialty Phase Ib–IV studies. Backed by over 100 years of collective research experience, our dedicated team delivers high-quality, dependable, and inclusive clinical trial services for both sponsors and patients.
We are committed to creating a positive and empowering experience for our participants—offering access to innovative treatments and the opportunity to take a proactive role in their healthcare. At TrueBlue, your involvement not only benefits your own well-being but also contributes to advancing medicine and improving lives through research.
Nurse Loves Essentials - Community Partner
Nurse Loves Essentials LLC is a consulting business dedicated to advancing health equity for women with autoimmune and chronic illnesses. Inspired by a personal journey Nurse Loves Essentials aims to address the gaps in healthcare access, equity, and outcomes for marginalized communities.
We leverage over 25 years plus of healthcare experience to drive systemic change. We also partner 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.
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.
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.
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.
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. 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.
Sketch & Pen Co - Community Partner
As an Illustrator and Graphic Designer, she started her journey fueled by a lifelong passion for creativity and art. What began as a childhood love for doodles, sketches, and crafts eventually grew into a professional career in graphic design. She has since turned those interests into two successful businesses: Little Main Street Dreams, which offers custom products, and Sketch & Pen Co., which specializes in brand identity and illustration.
Her story began with a simple idea: the desire to turn a personal skill into a thriving business. She initially provided creative services to friends and family members who were entrepreneurs. When the pandemic struck and businesses had to shift online, she saw a vital opportunity to help them build a strong visual identity.
Rheumatoid arthritis is part of her journey, but it doesn't define her story. She faces its challenges with resilience, supported unwaveringly by her husband and three children. For her, the ultimate motivation comes from her clients—those who value and appreciate the intentional, personal effort she invests in every project.
Speakers
2026 Speakers
Catina Morrison
RN, BSN, EMBA
President, Inflamed Sisters Thriving Inc
CEO, Nurse Loves Essentials LLC
Dr. LaShawn Weaver-Lee
Board-Certified OB/GYN Hospitalist
CEO & Founder theplantdoc Health & Behavior Coaching
Ashley Nicole
Autoimmune Coach & Master Fitness & Nutrition Trainer
Vice President, Inflamed Sisters Thriving Inc
Dr. Saarah Nicolas
Psychologist
Gabrielle Davis
Corporate Communications Lead and Lupus/Patient Advocate
Chaquira Andrade
LCSW, HS Patient Advocate
Dr. Phylicia Harris
DNP, APRN, FNP-C, FMACP
Vendors
Event Schedule
Schedule
Saturday, August 1, 2026: Summit (11:30 am ET – 4:30 pm ET)
(Free transport by Squeeze from hotel and downtown locations)
11:30 am-11:35 am
Welcome
11:35 am-11:45 pm
Thrive in Your Skin
Catina Morrison, IST Founder & President shares her perosnal journey with psoriasis, hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) and autoimmune disease, highlighting unseen pain, resilience, and the path to "stop hiding & start thriving"
11:45 am -12:30 pm
The Path to Confidence in Your Skin (Patient Advocate Panel Discussion) A discussion on skin and inflammatory diseases, mental health impact, self-confidence, relationships, and the journey to thrive
12:30 pm-1:30 pm
Chef-Prepared Lunch & Vendor Bingo
1:30 pm-2:15 pm
HS Patient Advocate Program - Sponsored by UCB (Dermatologist Presentation & Patient Advocate Interview) This program is all about helping our community learn more about hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) — what it is, how it affects the body, and what steps can lead to earlier diagnosis and better treatment.
2:20 pm -2:40 pm
The Strength of Resilience and Thriving in Your Skin (Psychologist)
An affirming session created to highlight the importance of resilience and developing positive body image to thrive while living with chronic skin conditions.
2:40 pm - 3:10 pm
Break, Content, Vender Scavenger Hunt, Refreshments
3:10 pm-3:50 pm
The Role of Science and Research for Auto-Inflammatory Advancements (DNP-FMP, Pharmacist, Clinical Researcher Panel Discussion) Health and science experts share evidence-based practice results on the impact of clinical research and advancing reliable treatment options
3:50 pm - 4:10 pm
How the Social Determinants of Health Impact Outcomes for Underserved Communities - LCSW and RN) A deep-dive into how social determinants of health impact the lives of patients in underserved communities and the tools required to bridge the gap.
4:10 pm - 4:30 pm: Raffle and Vendor Prizes
Night out with Warriors
Joinery 6:30pm - 9:30pm
Sunday, August 2, 2026, Thrive in Your Skin Gala (5:30 pm ET – 10:30 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
- Patient Advocate of the Year
- Inflamed Sister Thriving of the Year
- Nonprofit of the Year
8 pm -10:30 pm
Refreshments, Dancing and Entertainment
Inflamed Sisters Thriving Awards – Transparency & Voting Policy
The Inflamed Sisters Thriving Scholarship Fundraiser is a community-powered initiative created to uplift and empower women living with autoimmune and autoinflammatory conditions. Each year, nominees for the IST Awards will join together to “pay it forward” by raising funds that directly support warriors in need—who are striving to thrive personally, professionally, and within their advocacy journeys.
Many in our community are navigating chronic illness while also facing financial hardship or living on disability. Access to opportunities, education, and supportive spaces can make all the difference. This scholarship fund exists to remove barriers and open doors.
So far this year, IST was able to support the travel and / or hotel accommodations for ten (10) Warriors to this year's Summit & Gala, pay booth fees for 3 Warriors, provide personal mentorship and professional guidance to 20 Warriors, and make donations to 4 nonprofits. We will not stop there in 2026. Now we're asking for your help to pay it forward by choosing this year's award winners!
Every dollar counts as a vote for the nominee. Be sure to select the link for your nominee's campaign.
Your support helps us:
-
Provide scholarships for personal and professional development
-
Sponsor social media, blog, and podcast training for warriors ready to share their voice
-
Strengthen patient advocacy skills through training and mentorship
-
Cover hotel and accommodations for patient advocates to next year’s Summit & Gala
-
Donate booths fees to help warriors share their products and services
-
Expand community resources that help warriors thrive year-round
And the nominees for this year's IST Awards are...
Patient Advocate of the Year:
Parish Armstead is a Buffalo, New York-based social media influencer, patient leader, and hip-hop artist known for his advocacy around hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). Beyond his advocacy, he is a rapper who recently released "We Rise (The HS TRUTHS Anthem)". Armstead is also deeply active in his local community in Buffalo, where he supports small youth businesses
Crystal embodies a powerful blend of professional discipline, lived experience, and community‑centered leadership. Even after her HS diagnosis, she continued her lifelong commitment to service by expanding her impact through advocacy, education, mentorship, and community‑building.
Anjelica Mendoza is a resilient HS patient advocate who has transformed her journey with chronic illness into a source of purpose, advocacy, and community impact. Through sharing her story, uplifting others, and showing up with courage and grace, she strives to inspire hope and remind people that a diagnosis does not define their future.
Inflamed Sister Thriving of the Year:
Lauren Mendelshon
Lauren Mendelsohn is a recording artist, epilepsy patient advocate, and the creator of Our Strength Within, a podcast amplifying the stories of people living with chronic and invisible illnesses. Through heartfelt conversations and community‑centered storytelling, she inspires listeners to feel seen, supported, and empowered as they navigate their own journeys with resilience and hope.
Dr. Sha’Nail Mo’Nick is a fifteen‑year lupus warrior who has transformed her journey through pain, hospitalizations, and life‑altering challenges into a powerful mission of advocacy, education, and hope. As the founder of Fight4Lupus, she leads with faith, resilience, and purpose—empowering others to rise above their diagnosis and thrive with strength, courage, and unwavering determination.
Tresa embodies strength and resilience in her 18-year journey with lupus and three decades of motherhood. She seasoned entrepreneur a talented and well-established event director. As the CEO of C.R.O.W.N. Exclusive LLC, she draws from over 20 years of experience to deliver exquisite events that display her extraordinary skills in planning, design and marketing combined with a passion for bringing joy to others.
Nonprofit of the Year:
The Standing Light Foundation is a chronic‑illness–focused wellness organization dedicated to empowering individuals to heal, grow, and reconnect with their inner strength. Through education, community support, and transformative programs, it provides hope, resilience, and meaningful guidance for those navigating life with chronic and invisible conditions.
Beautifully Unblemished Vitiligo Support Group
Beautifully Unblemished Vitiligo Support Group is Florida’s only vitiligo support organization, dedicated to empowering individuals and families through education, advocacy, and community connection. Through awareness initiatives, mental‑health support, and community programs, the organization works to eliminate stigma and help people embrace confidence, resilience, and pride in their skin.
Association of Hidradenitis Suppurativa and Inflammatory Disease (AHSID)
AHSID is a national patient‑advocacy organization dedicated to advancing education, awareness, health equity, and support for people living with Hidradenitis Suppurativa and related inflammatory diseases. Through community programs, advocacy initiatives, and holistic empowerment, the organization works to close care gaps and help HS warriors thrive emotionally, mentally, spiritually, and physically.
Every contribution—big or small—creates real, tangible impact. By supporting this fundraiser, you help us continue building a world where women with chronic illness are seen, supported, and celebrated. Together, we can ensure that next year’s attendees have access to the event, the community, and the life-changing experiences they deserve.
Empower a warrior. Increase their visibility. Help them to thrive.
Note: All charitable donations are non-refundable and will be used for the above initiatives.
Use of Information
By participating, nominees and voters agree that IST may use names, images, and submitted information for award announcements and celebration across our platforms.
Venue, Hotels, & Transportation
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
Inflamed Sisters Thriving Inc is supplying a list of locations that have agreed to supply discounts for attendees of this event for a limited time. Please note no guarantees for availability and choose at your own discretion.
$139 per night July 31, 2026 - August 3, 2026
525 West Orange Street, Lakeland, FL 33815
Enter Code g-ifls or select link below.
https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/florida/hyatt-place-lakeland-center/tpazl?corp_id=g-ifls
Once on the website, BOOK NOW, and then select your Check-in and Check-out dates; BOOK NOW then SELECT your preferred room Complete Your Reservation
Springhill Suites by Marriott Lakeland
$154 per night July 31, 2026 - August 3, 2026
511 West Lime Street Lakeland, FL 33815
https://app.marriott.com/reslink?id=1777064203310&key=GRP&app=resvlink
You may book by either clicking the link above or by calling the hotel at 863-413-1700 and ask to reserve under the Inflamed Sisters Thriving group block, or “IST” group code.
Email Camilla@inflamedsistersthriving.org for assistance on the Inflamed Sisters Thriving hotels and vacation rental options.
Transportation to Venue
- Locations: The Squeeze specifically services RP Funding Center/Hyatt/SpringHill Suites, taking visitors to downtown spots, including The Joinery and Junior League of Greater Lakeland.
- Friday Evening: 4 p.m.–2 a.m.
- Saturday: 8 a.m.–3 p.m. and 4 p.m.–2 a.m.
- Lunch: Monday–Friday 11 a.m.–2 p.m.
- Cost: Free (funded by the City of Lakeland).
- Frequency: Golf carts run about every 20 minutes.
Register
Registration closes Friday, July 24, 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?
- Summit - Smart Business Casual
- Gala - Formal attire, purple is 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 info@inflamedsistersthriving.org 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.
What do we do for parking?
There is an ample supply of parking behind the building for all attendees. If you choose to use Uber or Lyft you can be dropped off at the front of the building.