Scleroderma Update

I had my 4 month check up with my scleroderma specialist Dr. James Seibold at the University of Michigan on Monday, June 15th.
Great news!!!! He is seeing some improvement in my skin.....specifically in my face, neck, and trunk. I also showed marked improvement in my Pulmonary function test (PFT).....so this indicates my lungs are still working well....and there is no internal involvement! Ken and I were thrilled to hear this news...and praise God for these two changes!!! In addition...Dr. Seibold is going to see if I can resume therapy on my hands and do this under a special research study being conducted by the University of Michigan.

I did receive hand therapy for around 7 months last year....but insurance denied the continuance of it because my hands were not improving.
The research project at U of M is specifically designed for sclero patients and is done locally in cooperation with U of M. This may take some time to be approved and scheduled....but we are praying that God will "make a way".

Dr. Seibold also increased my medication "Cellcept" which is an auto-immune suppressant. He stated that the disease (although incurable) can run it's course and hardened skin can begin to soften....but he also stated he is unable to pinpoint the reason for improvement. We can pinpoint it.......THE POWER OF PRAYER!!!! There are sooooo many of you that have faithfully prayed for me since the onset of my disease (2 years ago this month)! I continue to thank the Lord for what He has allowed me to experience by becoming ill....I know that sounds strange...but had I not gone through this valley....I would have missed the blessing of facing this challenge in my life!

Realistically I have a long way to go.....but am elated for the short distance I've come! My prayer is that through my life and trials of my health that God will be glorified....and lives are touched...and that others are moved in their hearts to trust God....our creator....the Alpha and Omega...the beginning and the end!! With the love of Christ in your life...you do not need to fear!!! He can do amazing things with you and through you!!!!