I was first diagnosed with psoriasis when I was 12 years old.
I used to have plaque psoriasis on my body and scalp, but now it is more just guttate psoriasis (characterised by small spots with a raindrop appearance). In the last six years I have also developed psoriatic arthritis in some of my joints; thankfully it’s better now and only really affects two fingers, although I sometimes suffer from morning aches and pains.
I finished my last course of phototherapy in early 2008 and my skin is far better and more manageable now than it’s been in over 15 years, although still not completely clear. I use my psoriasis as an added incentive to try maintain a fairly healthy lifestyle (diet/exercise) and to better manage my stress levels.
I guess I’ve learned to live with my psoriasis and while I wish I could be rid of it completely, I know it is part of what has shaped me to be the person that I am today, so I am no longer ashamed of it.
While I’m fortunate that my condition is so improved and never really was as severe as so many other people suffering from psoriasis, I know I’ve gone through the heart of what Psoriasis: The Naked Truth is about and feel privileged to be involved in such a worthwhile cause.
