New member

[PGwarrior]

Hi I am new to this group. I have a condition called pyoderma gangrenosum which has left most of my body severely scarred. My problem is its now attacked my face leaving me scarred across my forehead, right cheek and neck. I'm not the same person I was and I can't look in the mirror. Saw plastic surgeon and scar specialist today who recommended me to here as there is nothing they can do for my face. I'm just struggling with my appearance now and don't want to go out as the comments and stares get me down. Any advice appreciated x

[SamChangingFaces Partner]

Hello PGwarrior.

Welcome the the Changing Faces Community and thank you for posting your thoughts on here. It sounds like you've had a lot going on with your condition and this has understandably been a struggle for you on several levels. I'm sorry the the stares and comments are getting you down... that sounds hard... could you say a bit more?

There are many people here who will have experienced similar feelings to connect with and who support each other.

Take care of yourself, Sam

[AlwaysSmiling Community Ambassador]

Hi PGwarrior. Sorry to hear that nothing can be done for your face. First of all, let me tell you that you're not alone! Everyone struggles with their appearance, even people who don't have visible differences. It is completely normal to be feeling the way you do and I'm sure most of us on here have been through something similar.

Staring and comments are difficult. I've been experiencing them for as long as I can remember. You just need to remember that it is only a small part of your day so try not to allow it to take over everything. I know this is difficult because I've let it ruin my day many times before. You need to live your life by doing whatever you want to do. Don't let nasty people stop you! I'm sure you are a very strong person so I believe you can do it. Now you just need to believe it too! The piece of advice I have for you is regarding staring. Just smile. I do this and most of the time I get a smile back and they stop staring. If not, they're probably not a nice person but as I said, don't let them discourage you. Hope this helps. Best wishes.❤

[danjos]

Hi, I can totally emphasize with you, I have loads of scars on my face and neck that can't be covered up with makeup. I feel totally self conscious, and hate going out. I used to be very attractive which makes it harder, but I got in several accidents that changed me. I have tried to commit suicide a few times but failed, I have to accept myself, but I am not sure how to.

[Hidden in reply to danjos]

Hi danjos,

It sounds like you've been through some extremely hard times. It must have taken a lot of courage and perseverance to get where you are now, and look for help. I hope you've seen on the forum that many people in our community experience feeling self-conscious and distressed about their appearance - you're not alone, and I hope you can connect with people here who understand what you're going through.

You mentioned making suicide attempts in the past - I hope you're in a better place now, but if you're still experiencing suicidal thoughts, please talk to somebody you trust. Your doctor is there to support your mental wellbeing as well as your physical health, and in the UK Samaritans are open 24/7 if you'd like a listening ear. You can call them for free on 116 123.

If you ever feel like you're in danger of acting on thoughts about harming yourself, please contact the emergency services wherever you are - in the UK that's 999 for an ambulance.

Take care,

Ellie

[Gogo_go in reply to danjos]

Hey please reach out if you need to, I’ve gone through something so similar and would love to offer any type of support I can.

[danjos]

Hi, Gogo_go, what happened to you, I have scars all over my face and neck, due to several accidents, well intentional ones unfortunately. I suffer with self confidence, and find it hard to get out, maybe we could talk xx

[Asil77]

Hi new on here I r u still on here?? Pyoderma is really rare I have it very badly. You will be the first woman of my age that I have found in the uk who also has it. And it’s even rarer on your face, I had it so badly it has left me with deep scaring on my face. Would like to chat if you would?

[CarolinChangingFaces Partner in reply to Asil77]

Hi Asil77 welcome to the Changing Faces community. I hope you find that this is a good place to connect, support and share with others in similar situations.

Take Care

Caroline - Changing Faces.