Dawn Rhea

Dawn Rhea

I must preface this with the fact that the movie about scleroderma prompted much thought and reflection about my own state. I was diagnosed with scleroderma at the age of 20; I am now 32 and am doing very well. I have not been on any meds for close to two years now. I have been on penicillamine, colchicine, various steroids and the last was methotrexate.

Each gave me back something: energy, movement, hope. When I was first diagnosed, my health quickly declined and the scleroderma progressed rapidly. At the time, I didn't know how serious it was, much to my benefit. My lack of knowledge helped me to believe that I was going to get better and there wasn't much to stop me.

Now, I am a teacher and am going full force. I do have symptoms and will probably need to reevaluate my situation soon, but I have been blessed with this time in which I have not had to think about my disease or taking care of it or progression. I am lucky. This week I was reminded of that fact and that I better start remembering it!

Update: 42, still going strong, no meds but issues with swallowing every now and again…life is good - divorced and I’m healthy…

Dawn Rhea

If anyone would like to correspond, please contact me at: DawnersR@aol.com

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