Psoriasis One-to-One mentors
Meet the mentors
Allison V., Dallas, Texas
Personal experience: Psoriasis | Psoriatic Arthritis | Childhood psoriatic disease | Systemics
I developed psoriasis at 10 and psoriatic arthritis at around 13. Middle school was a difficult time for me. Classmates would ask, "What is that on your leg?" or "Why do you have so much dandruff?" I used creams, ointments, shampoos and coal tar treatments which were messy and smelly. When I developed arthritis, the correlation between arthritis and psoriasis was not well known so it took several doctors to get an accurate diagnosis. At times my joint inflammation was so severe it prohibited me from conducting normal activities and eventually required foot surgery. During flare-ups, I had trouble writing with a pen or walking up a flight of stairs. After starting a systemic injection in 2004, both my psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis are under control, with occasional flares. I work as a fundraiser for a private school and volunteer for several different organizations, including the Psoriasis Foundation.
Brian L., Raleigh, N.C.
Personal experience: Psoriasis | Psoriatic Arthritis | Childhood psoriatic disease | Biologics
I developed psoriasis when I was 13 years old and psoriatic arthritis when I was 15. At one point my body was 90 percent covered in plaque psoriasis. Today I take a biologic medication that works very well and both my psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis are under control. My passion is politics, so both my career and volunteer life evolve around it. I work in the state House of Representatives in Raleigh, N.C. I volunteer as an advocate to help pass the first psoriasis- and psoriatic arthritis-related bill introduced in Congress. My other passion is helping others. As a psoriasis patient, I understand what life can be like with this disease.
Brian was named the National Psoriasis Foundation 2009 Volunteer of the Year.
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Caren C., Kenneth City, Fla.
Personal experience: Psoriatic arthritis | Parent of a child with psoriatic disease
I was diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis in 2009, but have been dealing with this condition since childhood. Being diagnosed was actually a relief for me, after years of enduring symptoms that ranged from irritating to debilitating, with no clear answers.I am managing symptoms now with medication and working to make healthy lifestyle changes. Although I don't work full time because of ongoing health concerns, I do stay as active as possible with volunteer activities and working limited hours. Balance is what I have found to be the most important treatment for my condition, second to a willingness to try a variety of treatments until the right one presents itself. My young daughter was recently diagnosed with this condition, so I am more committed than ever to remaining involved in activities that demand attention and interest to finding a cause, symptom relief and, eventually, a cure.
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Carol S., Columbus, Ohio
Personal experience: Guttate psoriasis | Light therapy
I have had guttate psoriasis on most parts of my body for the past 35 years. My treatment regimen over the years has included numerous topical steroids, cyclosporine and ultraviolet light B (UVB) therapy. Three years ago I started using a biologic medication which is very effective, but I still get occasional flares. I work as a medical technologist in a hospital laboratory and, in my free time, I enjoy traveling, sewing, photography and bicycling.
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Caroline C., Simi Valley, Calif.
Personal experience: Psoriasis | Psoriasis and pregnancy
I developed psoriasis about 20 years ago when I was pregnant with my third child. At the time, I lived in Seattle where I could hide my psoriasis by wearing pants and long-sleeved shirts. When I knew I was moving to a much warmer climate in Southern California, I was nervous about my skin being exposed, but, as it turned out, the exposure to sun improved my skin tremendously! I have an active outdoor lifestyle, maintain a healthy diet and practice relaxation techniques like Tai Chi for stress control. I still have flare-ups, but don't get upset about them as much now that I have experienced some success in treatments.
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Carrie P., Allen Park, Mich.
Personal experience: Psoriasis | Psoriatic Arthritis | Childhood psoriatic disease
I was diagnosed with psoriasis at age 5 and psoriatic arthritis at age 19. I have tried almost every treatment available and often participate in medical studies for new topical medications. I have been raised to always be proud of who I am, so I live by the motto, "If ya got it, flaunt it!" I enjoy sharing my experiences with others and have a positive attitude and outlook on living in my skin I have.
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Christine M., Pottstown, Pa.
Personal experience: Parent of child with psoriasis
In 2007, my daughters developed psoriasis triggered by repeat strep throat infections. At the time, no one in our family knew anything about psoriasis. My 4-year-old started losing her hair because of her scalp psoriasis and began withdrawing socially. Pre-school was a difficult time for both of them because their classmates were curious about their psoriasis and parents were fearful that it was contagious. After many different treatments, including topicals and ultraviolet light therapy, the girls started on methotrexate injections for one year. Both girls responded well to this treatment and have been off the medications now for over a year. After the shame and embarrassment my daughters went through, our family is dedicated to educate people about psoriasis. We do this by participating in the Walk to Cure Psoriasis in Philadelphia, staying involved as psoriasis advocates and supporting other parents who have children with psoriasis and/or psoriatic arthritis.
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Cristy B., La Mesa, Calif.
Personal experience: Psoriasis | Childhood psoriatic disease
I developed psoriasis when I was only six months old. Having psoriasis my whole life has definitely shaped me into the person I am today. I learned at an early age that I was special and that I should pay particular attention to my health. My psoriasis has always been mild with a few flares here and there but at one point it covered my scalp completely. A turning point for me was getting involved with the National Psoriasis Foundation. The first thing I wanted to do was connect with others like me, so I began a support group in San Diego. Joining the Psoriasis Foundation's advocacy efforts gave me the opportunity to express my feelings regarding the disease and then even begin to educate others about it. Meeting other people with psoriasis has given me a new perspective on my own psoriasis. I am also on the Walk to Cure Psoriasis Committee. I am 36, married, and we are hoping to start our family soon.
Fun fact: Cristy was named Psoriasis Foundation 2010 Volunteer of the Year!
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Deanna N., Port Richey, Fla.
Personal experience: Psoriatic arthritis
For the past few years I just wasn't feeling right. I was achy, fatigued, my joints hurt and I had dry skin. My primary care doctor ordered the usual blood tests and the results showed nothing abnormal. Two years later, my right foot and toes would repeatedly swell up, then spontaneously get better. So I went to see a podiatrist. After my exam with him, he recommended that I see a rheumatologist because I had other joint pain (hands, hips, back) and thought it sounded like some type of arthritis. As it turned out, my rheumatologist finally had the answer—it was psoriatic arthritis. Initially my diagnosis was difficult for me to accept. I was scared and had never even heard of this disease, so I set out to learn as much as possible. When I found the Psoriasis Foundation, it became my lifeline. I jumped onto their message board where I connected with many others with psoriatic arthritis. I learned so much from them and realized my disease was manageable and that life would go on! This is why I now volunteer for the Psoriasis Foundation's One to One mentor program. I know firsthand the importance of connecting with others who can relate to you, put you at ease and answer questions. It's very rewarding now to help others in the way I needed it at one time.
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Doris B., Port Orchard, Wash.
Personal experience: Psoriasis | Psoriatic arthritis | Treatments
I developed psoriasis at age 54. At that time, I was working full time, going to school for my BSN and, needless to say, I was very stressed. I went to see a dermatologist about these spots I had that wouldn't go away. To my surprise, it was plaque psoriasis. Then, nine years later I developed psoriatic arthritis. My treatment regimen started with topicals for my psoriasis, then moved onto a biologic, then phototherapy, followed by two more biologic medications. Today, I am pleased to say that I am only taking methotrexate and have occasional spots, so basically the psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis are both under control. Recently, I have taken control of my health with a weight-loss program and enjoy walking and working out. I am convinced that we all should be well informed about all aspects of our health, so I regularly sign up for the webcasts on www.psoriasis.org.
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Fatima C., Houston, Texas
Personal experience: Psoriasis
A couple years ago, I was diagnosed with psoriasis, and a wave of emotions set in all at once. First, I was excited to finally have a diagnosis for the constant dry and itchy skin on my elbows. Then I was upset to find out psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder with no cure. I went to several dermatologists and there was one who gave me the best recommendation ever—he said, "Contact the Psoriasis Foundation." Through their website, I learned so much about the disease and various treatments. Then I found an opportunity to volunteer for the One to One program. I immediately signed up so I could help others. I also volunteer for the Walk to Cure Psoriasis in Houston. I cherish everything I have learned through this journey so far.
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Fran K., Long Island, N.Y.
Personal experience: Psoriasis
Psoriasis has been part of my life for more than 17 years. As a hairdresser, my job is to help people look their best, but here I am with a disease that is very visible. I was determined that I was not going to wear long sleeves in the summer, constantly itch or lose my hair! So I went out on a mission to find answers to my questions and find a treatment that works for me. I learned as much as I could about this disease and found good doctors. My journey with psoriasis has transformed me into an informed and confident person. Today, I am clear, and grateful for it. I don't want anyone to suffer and would love to help others on their journey, too.
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George R., Long Island, N.Y.
Personal experience: Psoriasis | Childhood psoriatic disease
I was diagnosed with psoriasis when I was 15 years old and I remember becoming quite depressed about it. I have a twin brother, two more brothers and four beautiful sisters but I am the only one of my siblings with this disease. Since March of 2009, my psoriasis has been in remission but I am fully aware this is temporary and it could come back at any time. I use my psoriasis as an opportunity to get involved to help others. I co-lead a psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis support group on Long Island, offer my support as a psoriasis mentor and serve as a committee member for the New York Division of the National Psoriasis Foundation.
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Heather A., Cumberland, Md.
Personal experience: Psoriasis
I was diagnosed with psoriasis more than 10 years ago and, at the time, had never heard of it. I have never been psoriasis-free since. It took me a long time to get to a place where I was comfortable with other people seeing it and asking questions. Now I just try to use these situations as educational opportunities. My psoriasis is currently under control with medication and I have found exercise to be helpful with the stress of it all. Recently, my young nephew was poking my arm and when I asked what he was doing, he replied, "It is a game I made up. If my finger stays on the red parts, I win." I had to laugh, as I knew he meant no harm. When I replied that I hope it goes away, he said, "Why? I think it is cool. I wish I had it." While I hope he never experiences it, this was a reminder to focus on the positive.
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Jessica B., Bolingbrook, Ill.
Personal experience: Psoriasis
When I was 20, I woke up one morning, completely covered in spots I thought were chicken pox. It was a few weeks later and they turned into plaque patches and I was diagnosed with psoriasis. I remember thinking, "OK just give me whatever cream or pill I need to clear this up and I'll be on my merry way." Little did I know that this is not how psoriasis works. I had a year-long battle with every topical medication known to man. Nothing worked. Frustrated, mentally and emotionally drained, I decided to start a biologic treatment and I am happy to report I am doing very well. This was not an easy journey for me but I learned a great deal about myself. I have accepted my psoriasis and even embrace it! Knowledge is power and now I try to be as healthy and active as I can. I love to spend time with my family and dogs, I'm a huge Chicago Cubs fan and I love NASCAR!
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Jim S., Chester, N.Y.
Personal experience: Psoriasis
I grew up on the beach in Milford, Conn. In my late 30s, I met the woman of my dreams and moved to Chester to be with her. Shortly thereafter, my hands starting getting very dry and continued to get worse to the point where over-the-counter moisturizes stopped working and I had huge cracks in my skin. I went to a dermatologist who diagnosed me with psoriasis and said I would have it for life. That was an eye-opener for me. To learn more about it, I searched the Internet and found the National Psoriasis Foundation website and saw they had a program called Psoriasis One to One where I could be matched with a mentor. After I signed up, I heard from my mentor Todd, who really helped me cope with my newly discovered diagnosis. I also began chatting with other people on psoriasis forums so that I could stay connected and understand what it's like to live with this disease. Today, I'm doing well with my treatments and I hope I can help others the way my mentor helped me.
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John L., West Granby, Conn.
Personal experience: Psoriasis | Psoriatic arthritis
I was first diagnosed with psoriasis in 1964 while in military and developed psoriatic arthritis in 1976. All my occupations have challenged me to be "in front" of people, so I couldn't let my conditions affect the way that I worked or the way I lived. In addition to taking a biologic medication, I try to maintain a healthy diet and exercise at least three times a week. I love volunteering for the Psoriasis Foundation as a mentor, but I don't stop there. I am also an active in advocacy efforts on Capitol Hill and was a finalist for Volunteer of the Year in 2009 and 2010.
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Kelly K., East Brunswick, N.J.
Personal experience: Psoriasis | Childhood psoriatic disease
I developed psoriasis when I was about 14 years old and it covered my legs and arms. I can still remember how I much cried because I couldn't figure out a way to cover up my psoriasis for my school dance. For years, I tried covering up my psoriasis with different cosmetics and wore clothes that covered my legs and arms, even during hot and humid summer months. Eventually I came to accept it and today, at 24, I am not embarrassed to show my psoriasis. Currently, my psoriasis is under control with only few flares on my legs. I try to exercise daily to keep my stress level down, which can be a trigger. My dream is to become a pharmacist so that I will know about psoriasis medications to help others like me.
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Krista K., Miami, Fla.
Personal experience: Palmar-plantar psoriasis
I have palmar-plantar psoriasis which affects the palms of my hands and the soles of my feet. At times, my psoriasis is painful and debilitating. Living with a chronic disease and chronic pain has had a huge impact on my life. I have learned to cope with help from the Foundation. Among the many treatments I have tried is a home light box designed for treating hands and feet, which can be effective in managing my disease between flares. I found the National Psoriasis Foundation in 2003 through the community message board and have become more involved over the years. Today, I am a proud member of the Foundation Board of Trustees and serve as chair of several subcommittees, including the National Volunteer Leadership Conference Planning Committee. What I enjoy most is giving back by mentoring others through programs like One to One.
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Laura Madeline H., Austin, Texas
Personal experience: Psoriasis | Childhood psoriatic disease
I have had psoriasis since childhood, mostly on my hands and feet. At times I had it on my scalp, elbows, knees—you name it. I have tried many different medications, ointments, light treatment, biologics, etc. Today, I use a combination of treatments that keeps my psoriasis under control. The most exciting thing happened to me after 23 years—I was finally able to get my ears pierced! It meant more to me than being able to wear earrings—it was being in control of my psoriasis. I do not hide my skin and if others ask about it, I use it as an opportunity to talk to them about psoriasis. I enjoy biking, walking and Texas summers.
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Laurie E., Trinity, Fla.
Personal experience: Guttate psoriasis | Childhood psoriatic disease | Treatments
I was first diagnosed with psoriasis when I was 16 years old, which was 40 years ago, so I have a lot of experience when it comes to choosing a doctor, treatments and talking to people about it. My treatments have included topicals, PUVA (psoralen and ultraviolet light A [UVA]) and a biologic medication. Psoriasis first appeared on my scalp, but a few years later I developed guttate psoriasis on my body. I've had my emotional highs and lows with this disease and know how to be supportive of others. I was very lucky to have a supportive family who helped me during some of my tough times. Right now I'm celebrating that I'm clear, but I know psoriasis is a life-long disease and I need to continue doing the things that work for me, which include eating a healthy diet, exercising to reduce stress and keeping a positive attitude.
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Lillian P., Elmhurst, Ill.
Personal experience: Psoriasis | Childhood psoriatic disease
I have had psoriasis since I was 9 years old. At times, it has been severe. Over the years, I have tried many treatments and have had success with methotrexate and one of the biologic drugs. I still have visible psoriasis on my legs, but being active with the National Psoriasis Foundation (NPF) has helped me come to terms with this disease and my feelings of embarrassment that I carried for a long time. My volunteer involvement with the NPF includes being a psoriasis mentor, co-chair for the Walk to Cure Psoriasis in Chicago, chair for the Chicago division and member of the committee for the 2011 National Volunteer Leadership Conference (NVLC). Believe it or not, I used to be terrified of speaking in front of people, even people I know. Becoming active with the Psoriasis Foundation has helped me overcome my fear. Now I speak in public any chance I get to spread psoriasis awareness everywhere!
Fun fact: Lillian is a finalist for the 2011 Volunteer of the Year!
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Linda B., Arlington, Texas
Personal experience: Psoriasis | Psoriatic arthritis
I was diagnosed with psoriasis in 2005 and psoriatic arthritis in 2008. This is something I never thought could happen to me. I'm now retired from my job and plan to enjoy myself life? with my husband. My psoriatic arthritis is still bothersome and can be quite painful at times, but I trust my both my rheumatologist and dermatologist to provide me with appropriate treatments. I have been a psoriasis mentor for more than a year and have been matched with more than 20 mentees. I truly enjoy what I do for the psoriasis community and love being a volunteer for the National Psoriasis Foundation.
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Love Z., San Diego, Calif.
Personal experience: Psoriasis | Childhood psoriatic disease
I developed psoriasis when I was just 5 years old. It was difficult growing up with this disease—no one else in my family had it and I didn't know anyone else with it. Other kids didn't know what was "wrong" with me, so I was often taunted. Sometimes they were afraid of catching it. Still other times they were just concerned about me. I am now 30 years old and have found treatments and a lifestyle to manage my disease. I am eager to help others living with it, too. With the right support, we can get through it together and share the greater goal of someday finding a cure. Along with being a volunteer mentor, I also participate in Walk to Cure Psoriasis in San Diego.
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Ly N., Philadelphia, Pa.
Personal experience: Psoriasis | Psoriatic arthritis
I was diagnosed with psoriasis 15 years ago while in high school. I was embarrassed by my condition and tried everything to hide it. I came to realize that hiding it would allow psoriasis to take over my life. Instead, I started to work with my doctors to keep my condition under control and stopped hiding my skin. Last summer, I met another person with psoriasis who told me I inspired him to stop hiding his psoriasis and to make an appointment with his dermatologist. Last year I was also diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis. Being an avid runner, I have had to scale back on my running and I am now working with my rheumatologist to get me back on track.
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Lynn Y., Berkeley, Calif.
Personal experience: Plaque psoriasis
At 18 years of age, I was diagnosed with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, which devastated me at the time. My long emotional struggle with this disease went through various phases, including the feeling of just "giving up." Today, I'm happy to say that my psoriasis is under control, with occasional flares. I am close to graduating from the University of California at Berkeley, majoring in chemical biology. I am also much more at ease with my psoriasis and don't mind sharing my condition with others. My personal philosophy is to live a life, rather than to live for a living.
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Matthew K., Dallas, Texas
Personal experience: Erythrodermic psoriasis | Psoriatic arthritis
I was diagnosed with erythrodermic psoriasis when I was 17. Then I developed psoriatic arthritis at the age of 27. Today, I'm 44 and I still have to live with flares of both my psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. I learned about the National Psoriasis Foundation through their online message board community and instantaneously made a lot of good friends. Now I'm really excited about being a psoriasis mentor and helping others who are newly diagnosed or having a rough time, just as I did years ago.
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Meredith H., Newfoundland, Pa.
Personal experience: Psoriasis | Childhood psoriatic disease | Psoriatic arthritis
I first developed psoriasis when I was too small to remember, and then it went away mysteriously. It came back when I was about 10, just in time for middle school, and we've been constant companions ever since. I developed psoriatic arthritis at the beginning of high school, which I unofficially diagnosed myself with a medical dictionary. I've been asked if I have chiggers, leprosy, dandruff, or if I've recently scraped my elbows. But I don't mind telling them what it really is. So many people are affected, but are too embarrassed to talk about it. I'm an opera singer by trade and won't let psoriasis get in the way of my public appearances.
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Nessie S., Chapel Hill, N.C.
Personal experience: Psoriasis | Psoriatic arthritis | Childhood psoriatic disease
I was first hit with psoriasis in my early teens and psoriatic arthritis followed not too long after when I was 20. Because of where my psoriasis tends to be located (on and around my scalp), the effects of the untreated psoriatic arthritis—walking around my college campus not unlike the Hunchback of Notre Dame—while I waited for a rheumatology appointment were easier to notice. Today, both my psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis are well controlled, though I'm still not where I'd like to be. Still, the pain is at a level I can live with if I have to. By trade I'm a writer and editor, and connecting with people via blogs—my own (Lipstick, perfume and too many pills) and others'—and the Web has been a great outlet for me. It helps to be able to put stuff out there and get responses from people who know exactly what you're going through. That's another reason I like to volunteer for the Psoriasis Foundation as a mentor and also for the Walk To Cure Psoriasis in Raleigh.
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Nicole S., Marion, Iowa
Personal experience: Guttate psoriasis | Psoriatic arthritis | Light therapy
After a bout with strep throat in January 2010, I developed guttate psoriasis which covered 95 percent of my body. My treatments included various topical medications, but ultraviolet light B (UVB) phototherapy was the most effective. After I began light therapy, I was pretty clear for a several months, but recently small spots began to reappear on my arms, shoulders and back. While it is frustrating to see this, I know I can handle these small setbacks and just take "one day at a time," as they say. Psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis runs in my family. My sister developed psoriasis when she was 7 and my father has had psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis for more than 25 years. The most important thing I do for myself is eat a healthy diet, exercise and manage my stress level. I do this by journaling, getting pedicures and facials and I'm now training for a 5K run!
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Noelia F., San Diego, Calif.
Personal experience: Psoriasis | Psoriatic arthritis | Childhood psoriatic disease
I was diagnosed with psoriasis when I was in my teens. For years after that, I didn't understand that psoriasis is a life-long disease of the immune system. After taking the time to learn about this disease, I have a greater understanding and awareness and even feel "comfortable in the skin I'm in." This year, I was diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis, but that hasn't slowed me down. I work, go to school full time, spend time with my friends and am able to find a balance among all my activities. I am passionate about helping others and the National Psoriasis Foundation helps me do that through the One to One program.
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Sabrina S., Maui, Hawaii
Personal experience: Psoriasis | Childhood psoriatic disease
I was a teenager in high school when I was first diagnosed with psoriasis. The only thing I knew about it was that my mom had it and it was chronic. My body was about 90 percent covered in psoriasis. After going to numerous dermatologists and trying all different kinds of topical steroids and light treatments, my psoriasis eventually cleared for the most part. I am now in my mid-20s and still have it on my elbows and on my head. I am studying for a certification in nutrition and want to apply what I learn to keep myself healthy, live with a positive attitude and help others who have psoriasis. I am a happy newlywed, an avid runner and love living right by the beach. My mantra is "I don't let psoriasis define me or what I do. I define myself."
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Sally D., Orinda, Calif.
Personal experience: Psoriasis | Psoriatic arthritis | Childhood psoriatic disease
I have had psoriasis (various types) since I was 11 years old and psoriatic arthritis since I was 20. At times plaque and guttate psoriasis covered up to 90 percent of my body surface area. During my childhood I was even hospitalized a few times for severe psoriasis. My treatments have included many different topical medications, phototherapy and methotrexate. In addition to using conventional medicines, I have tried a variety of diets, Chinese herbs and acupuncture. Each stage of my life has presented me with new challenges in dealing with these diseases. Learning to control them so that they don't interfere too much with my life has been my goal, and so far, I think I have accomplished it fairly well.
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Stacey S.B., Oceanside, Calif.
Personal experience: Psoriasis | Scalp psoriasis
I developed psoriasis in my late 20s, after a divorce. It started on my scalp and over the years it spread to other parts of my body. It really started to get bad during the last 12 years, due to no medication and no insurance. I was able to participate in a clinical research trial, which greatly helped me. Today, at 59, I continue to have high hopes that someday I won't have to deal with this disease anymore. I will never give up doing what I can to help find a cure.
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Stephanie W., San Diego, Calif.
Personal experience: Psoriasis | Biologics
I've had psoriasis since I was 10. I used to hide my psoriasis and avoid social situations or cover up my patches. Today, if my psoriasis shows, it's just an opportunity for me to raise visibility and awareness about this disease. For the last five years, I have been on biologic drugs and doing very well, thanks to my dermatologist who I believe was the key to my successful treatment. I currently going to school for a degree in public health—a choice that was inspired my desire to make a difference in people's lives the way the Psoriasis Foundation has in mine.
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Steve W., Port Washington, N.Y.
Personal experience: Psoriatic arthritis | Treatments
When I was originally diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis at age 21, the treatment options were fewer in number and, in my case, nowhere near as effective as they are today. I attribute my success to the research that the National Psoriasis Foundation supports. I have experienced many of the traditional treatments such as cortisone, Vitamin D, coal tar, light therapy and every over-the-counter product I could find. I was hospitalized because of my skin around the same time that I had to drop out of college for a year because of arthritis. I became a psoriasis mentor because I want help others by using my own experiences. This illness has been in my family for three generations now. I am 53 years old, live on Long Island and have two great kids.
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Terri E., Tampa, Fla.
Personal experience: Psoriasis | Psoriatic arthritis
I was diagnosed with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis three years ago at the age of 51 after fighting eczema for eight years and not understanding why I had back and joint pain. It was a relief to finally know what I had. My condition is well controlled now with proper medications and I enjoy educating others about this disease, so that's why I volunteer as a psoriasis mentor. I also participate in the Tampa Walk for a Cure event as a committee chair. Psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis has not stopped me from my passion—traveling the world and experiencing different cultures.
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Todd B., Long Island, N.Y.
Personal experience: Psoriasis | Psoriatic arthritis
I've had psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis for 20 years since the age of 28. During that time, I've learned so much about the disease. I've read books about my disease and tried alternative and holistic approaches, as well as exhausting most conventional medical treatments (topical steroids, anti-inflammatory drugs, coal tar, light therapy). Now I'm taking a biologic drug that controls my symptoms. The National Psoriasis Foundation has helped me with treatments, education and moral support and I do what I can to live a healthy lifestyle. As a volunteer mentor, I enjoy speaking with others and sharing what I know about this chronic condition. I encourage others to get involved so they know they are not alone and to validate what they are feeling. My pastimes include, fishing, boating, golfing and cooking. I have a supportive wife and two lovely children who have also been a wonderful support.
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