2021 has been a challenging year for me. I lost my job in January, as the company I worked for had to shut down its operations because of the pandemic. Since then, I have not been able to find a new job because of my psoriasis. I have been freelancing from home ever since.
I had to move out of the company staff dormitory, and it wasn’t easy to find a new place to live. I could not tell my new tenant or housemates about my condition because I knew it was very likely I would be rejected if I did.
I stayed in my room for many months and only came out when I needed to use the kitchen or bathroom. I was so conscious of being in the living or dining rooms. My dead skin flakes fell everywhere, and I always had to sweep and clean up the mess.
I tried to explain my condition to my housemates, but they could not understand. Although they never say anything bad to my face, I can tell by their body language that they are uncomfortable around me, as if I’m contagious. I have always avoided them as much as I could.
I was hospitalized twice this year because of psoriatic arthritis, where I spent two weeks in the hospital. I have been admitted before, but it’s a very different experience when you are in the middle of a pandemic. There were so many restrictions, I could not leave the ward, and it felt claustrophobic. It was a very stressful experience, especially during moments when the sirens of ambulances could be heard.
By my second hospitalization, 98% of my body was covered with red, blotchy scales. I was in so much pain that I had difficulty getting out of bed, let alone perform simple tasks like having a shower or holding a spoon to feed myself.
When the doctor saw how severe my condition was, he suggested that I try biologics. There was an option for patients to sign up for a trial of seven doses. At that point, I was on the verge of giving up because nothing else seemed to be working. I was so tired of dealing with the physical and psychological pain, that I immediately agreed and signed up for the program.
After the first dose, I could notice an improvement in my condition. After the second dose, my skin was starting to be clear of psoriasis. It has not felt or looked this good since I was first diagnosed with psoriasis 12 years ago. Even my joint pain, swelling, and mobility problems caused by psoriatic arthritis have improved significantly.
One of the first things I did when I was feeling better was to make an appointment for a haircut. It was so nice to finally get my hair cut. After so many years of covering myself from head to toe, I started wearing shorts again and spending more time with my friends. It made me so happy to enjoy the simple pleasures in life and to be able to do all the things I missed out due to psoriasis.
I just had my last dose of biologics injection recently. I have applied for the Medical Assistant Fund to continue my treatment. I am keeping my fingers crossed that my application will be approved soon so that I can continue to be happy, healthy, and stress-free.
Ananth
CTX.PsO.01/MY2112140138
