- Relapsing Polychondritis
- Interviews
Tammi's interview
How did all start?
My ears started swelling, jumping from one to the other.
Do you already have a diagnosis? How long did it take you to get it?
Yes, I was diagnosed two years after affected.
For what medical specialties have you been treated? What has been the most useful specialty for your?
I am on Remicade infusions and Leflunomide at this time. I have tried Methotrexate with negative effects to my liver. Prior to that I was on Dapsone.
What has been the most useful thing for you so far?
Remicade Infusions and low stress.
What have been your biggest difficulties?
Accepting my diagnosis and life changes.
How has your social and family environment reacted? Have your social or family relationships changed?
Yes, I lost friends who could not deal with my illness. It has pulled most of my family closer, and they have been very supportive.
What things have you stopped doing?
High stress activities have ceased. I no longer am able to work.
What do you think about the future?
It is a grim outlook.
So far, which years have been the best years in your life? What have you done during them?
Honestly, the years before my illness were the best. Now I am in constant fear of flares and complications.
What would you like to do if you didn’t have your condition?
I would love to travel.
If you had to describe your life in a sentence, what would it be?
Blessed to finally have a diagnosis and treatment, thankful for my family, but angry at the hand I've been dealt.
Finally, what advice would you give to a person in a similar situation?
Take one day at a time and cherish every moment.
