My name is Toya Terry. I was born in Cincinnati, Ohio and raised there for a short period of time. I was diagnosed with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus in 1995, and then I moved to California. When I first moved to California, my diagnosis was changed to MCTD (mixed connective tissue disease).
Since my first diagnosis, I have discovered that I have the factor V Leiden mutation, pulmonary embolism, ITP (idiopathic thrombocytopenia purpura), anemia, arthritis, membranous lupus nephritis and possibly fibromyalgia. Aside from that, I am the mother of a very handsome and vibrant little boy.
My life has been extremely challenging since my time as a young girl. But I’ve managed to make the best of it. I choose to express my hurt, pain and experiences with lupus through poetry. I wrote a poetry book called A Piece of Me.
We definitely don’t get the recognition that we deserve. I’m hoping that you are able to share this with others in hopes that they will better understand our experiences.
Latoya
California
Submitted 01/06/2016
The informational content of this article is intended to convey a personal experience and, because every person’s experience is unique, should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional healthcare advice.
This story is intended to convey a personal experience and, because every person’s experience is unique, should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional healthcare advice.
Information on poetry book can be found at http://www.toydeann.com