Scleroderma.wmv

The following taken from article 'Understanding Scleroderma' by Dr. Peter Lee; http://www.sclerodermaontario.ca/understandingscleroderma.html

Scleroderma: Rare autoimmune disease of connective tissue leading to overproduction of collagen

Effects: Damages blood vessels, skin, internal organs-kidneys, heart, lungs, gut, thickening and tightening of skin, reduced blood flow to fingers and toes.

Population Affected: 10-20 out of 100 000 people. Occurs mainly in people between 30-50 years of age, and is more common in women.

Cause: Unknown, may occur in susceptible people through exposure to environmental chemicals and drugs.

Treatment: There is no cure, but there are therapies to help reduce symptoms, depending on what areas of the body are affected

The disease can be fatal when major organ damage is involved.

Event:

September 26, 2010 I am participating in the Scotiabank Waterfront Marathon in Toronto, Ontario to raise money for research to find a cure. If you are interested in sponsoring me with a pledge please visit the Web site:

http://my.e2rm.com/personalPage.aspx?SID=2766089

Thank you and stay healthy.

Frank

Category:

Nonprofits & Activism

Tags:

• Together
• we
• will
• overcome
• this
• menacing
• disease.

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Many scleroderma patients deal with gastrointestinal problems and this can cause problems in absorbing nutrients. Absorption of vitamin B12 can be an issue. Inability to absorb this particular vitamin can lead to anemia and fatigue. If a scleroderma patient is unable to absorb vitamin B12 orally, he/she may need a B12 injection. Please speak with your doctor if that is the case.

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There are many good resources for people with scleroderma. The Scleroderma Society of Ontario, and Scleroderma Foundation are two of many organizations. In Toronto there is a scleroderma clinic associated with Mount Sinai hospital. One of the doctors at the clinic is Dr. Peter Lee, a specialist who deals with scleroderma patients. I encourage all individuals with scleroderma to seek out the best possible care.

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Thank you getoutofmyway01. I am doing my best to deal with the problems associated with this disease, although at times it can be difficult. It would give me great satisfaction to see a cure so that we can eliminate this disease forever. I am happy to hear that your friend with Diffuse Scleroderma is doing ok. Scleroderma is such a complex disease with many physical and psychological manifestations. Spreading awareness is important. Take care and have a great summer.

[getoutofmyway01]

Good luck to you Frank. I have a good friend that has Diffuse Scleroderma. She's doing okay... I want to wish you the best. Be well, take care and keep on being brave like you are.

[miocynar]

Sounds like a terrible desease but looks like u are dealing with it best you can.