Gender

Female

Location

Delavan, WI

Birthday:

December 17

Hometown:

Delavan

Relationship Status:

It's Complicated

About Me:

Hi, My name is Valerie. I'm 42.A mom to a beautiful 16 year old Daughter and I'm recently separated from my Husband. I was diagnosed with having Vitiligo in 1997. I noticed it began appearing on both my hands. I love the sun. (I know our worst enemy) however I continued to tan in the tanning beds(summer only) on and off over the years. I've tried all the prescription ointments the Dermatologist suggested and even tried the uva lights, I've tried just about all the so called "cures" (so they say). In desperation I'd search and search online for hours for anything that would bring back the skin pigmentation loss that was increasingly getting worse and now spreading to my feet,my knee caps,elbows,stomach,rear end,upper Part of my legs,breasts,and then a few spots on my face. Vitiligo has robbed me of my self confidence. I've become self conscious and even embarrassed. I dread when summer arrives and In preperation I stock up on self tanners and bronzers that will cover my vitiligo. I've also been diagnosed with having a very rare auto immune disease "Adult Stills Disease" and was told it could be due to having Vitiligo. I just recently had to go back to the Dermatologist because I was noticing a significant thinning and hair loss and through biopsy was told I have androgenetic alepicia.(Thank heavens for clip in hair extensions) It's been overwhelming. I avoid going to the beach,pool,water parks. I cringe at the thought of wearing a bathing suit. When I do see another person with Vitiligo(on rare occasion) I want to say "I know what you're feeling." I've felt alone in this. Sure my friends are accepting of me and my family loves me unconditionally but they just have no idea what it's like. I'm looking forward to getting the support I need. To finally feel comfortable in my own skin. Truly, Valerie