Michelle’s Story (Lupus)

I am currently 22 years old. When I was born I was born three and a half months early and weighed and and a half pounds. When I was born I received blood transfusions.

When I was 17 years old it was October 2008, I was a senior in high school. I was athlete I played three sports year around since I was 7 years old. I was scheduled to have my wisdom teeth out and when I woke up my hands and toes were black and I couldn’t feel them. I then was rushed to the ER where labs and test were done, but I had to wait for the results. I waited about one weeks and the ANA test came back positive. One thing let to another. After the episode with my hands and feet, I developed shortness of breath. I was recommend to go to a rheumtologist near my hometown. The doctor informed me that I had SLE Lupus, with mixed connective tissue disease, scleroderma, and raynaud’s disease.

I was unable to finish my senior year in regards to playing all my sports. It got to the point where I was very depressed and didn’t want to do anything. I was put on Predisone for six months and started going to one of the best hospitals in this nation, Mass General in Boston, MA. I now have been a patient at Mass General for almost six years this October (it will be 6 years I’ve been diagnosed).

I have had two right heart catheters, one muscle biopsy, many PFT, many CT Scans, and MRI’s. I never thought six years ago I would be where I am today. I go through my struggles of days where I can’t open a soda bottle, or a door handle, or even get out of bed. I have tired many medications and I am still hoping someday I will go into remission, my doctors informed that this is not very likely due to my other illnesses.

I saw this website and I really wanted to write on it to let everyone know never give up, don’t let this illness get the best of you, keep a positive attitude. Your attitude plays a big role in your life and the way you feel daily. Like I said I didn’t think I would be where I am today. Today I am a nurse working in the ER and giving back to other people. When I got this hump in my road of my life I didn’t let it stop me I reached for my dreams and I am still going, and you guys can too! STAY POSITIVE WE CAN DO THIS!!!

Michelle
Massachusetts
Submitted 09/24/2013

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.