Advocating for Psoriasis

Psoriasis has been a part of my life for many years and I am very passionate about the advocacy for psoriasis. I love educating, working in, and creating safe spaces for people who are living with psoriasis. August is Psoriasis Awareness Month. This has prompted me to share with you a little bit about my own journey, why I do what I do, and what this kind of awareness means to me.

My journey with psoriasis

Many years ago, one spot appeared on my wrist and for a long time, it was misdiagnosed as ringworm. Needless to say, all of the creams I was using for the "ringworm" did absolutely nothing to ease or clear this spot. Within a few weeks, I headed into my first severe flare which led to a diagnosis. It was bad, and I do not think I will ever forget what I went through. The not knowing, the fear, the isolation, and the shunning from people who I loved and called friends.

So many years and life lessons (and a thousand remedies, creams, lotions, etc.), later, here we are, still standing, still living with psoriasis. However, a much calmer, more loving, less lonely, and peaceful woman stands before you today. A woman who creates safe supported spaces for others going through the same thing. I guess it comes down to being who you needed when you were younger.

Why I advocate for psoriasis awareness

Going through my first few flares and the first few years of psoriasis was like walking through fire and brimstone. I was so lonely, and I honestly struggled so much. I struggled to find spaces, where I was welcomed and accepted. My mental health tanked, possibly one of the worst spaces I have been in. I do not want anyone to have to go through that. I believe so strongly that through education and shared experiences, we can make a change for the better in our communities and our fellow psoriasis patients. Education means that we can reduce the stigma that is associated with psoriasis.

How I advocate:

• By sharing my story and the years of experience that I have.
• By creating and nurturing spaces for others to tell their stories.
• By wearing my skin on display, allowing people to ask and answer questions, and teaching those around me about what I go through.
• By raising awareness of the actual facts to do with psoriasis and also breaking down the myths and the stigmas associated with psoriasis.

I do not do this alone, I work alongside some great communities that believe in what we do, just like this one. We build each other up, we connect and we understand. Leaning on each other in times of need and being there for those who need someone to lean on. Within these spaces, I have found my own peace and acceptance and I love sharing that with the world. Building incredible friendships that have lasted decades, while making the world a little less lonely one person at a time. I am here for it.

Celebrating this month

Yes, you read that correctly - in celebration of this psoriasis awareness month, I will be thanking everyone who has walked this journey with me. Through the good, the bad, and the downright unbearable. The love and support of my core people have carried me more days than not. The kindness and understanding of online communities have been my pillar. Knowing that we are not alone in this can make a world of difference. You are truly not alone in this.