New here and to the UK... and feeling very low today

[Cheptilda]

My name is Doris and I am from Kenya, currently studying in the UK.

So in 2003, i started having hard lesions along my elbow and at first I ignored it, but as it progressed along my arm , I decided to seek medical attention, that time the lesions had reached my wrist. it took a few months for it to be diagnosed as Scleroderma. Later in the year, I relocated to Dubai and within a few months all the symptoms cleared a. I relocated back to Kenya 4 years later with no symptoms, as we speak almost all my skin is back to normal.

2 months ago I came to the UK for my Masters after saving for it for a long time. A week after I arrived, I felt the first tingling signs which is usually an antecedent for skin hardening. I assumed that it was because of the cold and so did not think much of it. But over the last week, the signs have increased and I now have the sensations all over my body and I am finding it hard to keep my toes and fingernails warm, the tips of my fingers are drying and scaling.

I am going to see a GP today who will hopefully recommend a specialist. I am sure I will get sufficient advice on how I can manage this but I just wanted to write and tell someone how sad and scared I am feeling at the moment.

I am a single mother to a 10 year old son who is now with my family back home, I quit a job, left my support system, son and everything I know to pursue an education and now I am here cursing myself for not thinking this through, I am thinking I should have put this into consideration.

I am scared as its the beginning of winter (my first winter, ever) and I don't know how much my body will take and whether I will be able to reverse any of this once I go back to Kenya.

Its probably something I am going to be able to manage and I know other people here have it far far worse, but at this minute right now, I cant stop crying and I don't know why.

I am grateful that there is an community that I can talk to.

[Littleleni]

I'm sorry your having a bad (I have many too) day, talking it out is the best thing! You sound like a strong young lady, yes it may take you a little longer ( days needed to rest and such) but you can reach your goals! Take it slow and find things that help your symptoms. A good diet, meditation and maybe some supplements. 🌻take care.

[Kc_1411]

Hey Doris I am sorry to hear your story. This is a hard situation but you have to stay positive (especially for your son) this is not the end of the road just something to slow you down. My advice seek medical attention any advice you can get. Explain to your education providers your situation so they can support you through this give you more time if possible. I don't know how severe your scleroderma is but there are many treatment options available use this site to ask any questions you may have, people here are of great support.

I wish you all the best x

[LucyJean]

Hi Doris, what an extraordinarily strong and brave lady you are. coming over here to get your education despite all the difficulties, be they physical, financial or emotional. For anyone being in a strange place, without your usual family and friends around you would be really hard, but to have to cope with physical difficulties on top of that...that is tough. It would be strange if you didn't feel overwhelmed and emotional. No wonder you keep crying! No wonder you are fearful!

Firstly, talk to your GP about getting you to see a Rheumatologist who specialises in Scleroderma so at least someone is monitoring your health and can give you advice and information so you are less concerned. Secondly, there should be someone linked to the university who is there to provide support for people with health problems and any adaptations you need to make studying as easy as possible. Talk to your personal tutor on your course about this. Thirdly, access the SRUK website and helpline for further information about your condition and for general support. Fourthly, get yourself a winter wardrobe, lots of thermal clothes to help you deal with the British climate. Lastly, make sure you stay in contact with your friends and family and reach out to the people on your course so you have lots of day to day support.

Look after yourself.

Hugs

Lucy xxx