Alexandra
Age: 32
Career: Unemployed due to TSW (I loved my job working with kids with autism)
When did you cease using topical steroids: July 18, 2014
What type did you use: I used for 30 years. So many I have lost track! All types, continuously upped the dose until I was in the ER constantly!
What is your favorite product for comfort? SALINE! I put it on a 4×4 disposable cloth and sponge bath myself or use it whenever my skin is burning, itching, or I am otherwise worried about infection or just want to clean my fingers without pain. I don’t go anywhere without it. It is my life line. Haven’t used soap in years, only SALINE.
What is the hardest thing to deal with during this condition? Hardest part is not being able to move or skin will crack. Very anxiety provoking. Also doctors upon doctors telling you you’re crazy.
What is the first thing you will do when healed? When I am healed I am going to live out my purpose of raising awareness and helping others heal from all sorts of physical, emotional, spiritual ailments.
Brooklyn Stafford
Age: 15
Career: Student
When did you cease using topical steroids: August 2015
What type did you use: Many different the last year mostly clotrimazole/betamethasone, Hydrocortisone(2.5%), Triamcinolone(0.1%), Epiceram( non steroid) clocortolone,(0.1%), prednisone 10mg, desonide 0.05%, UV therapy in 2014 for three months.
What is your favorite product for comfort? My favorite product to use during TSW was my moms home made Shea butter and Jojoba oil.
What is the hardest thing to deal with during this condition? The hardest part of TSW for me was going to sleep at night because I felt closed in and anxious. Also walking around was hard. My body would be in constant pain and I was dry, sticky oozy all at the same time. Sometimes the mental aspect was worse then the physical.
What was the first thing you did when you healed? One of first things my mom did for me when I was better was give me a make over at MAC. It was nice to wear make up.
Preventable: Protecting Our Largest Organ 