 I am very excited to be part of this world wide organization that is devoted to helping scleroderma sufferers and their families in obtaining knowledge, support, love and friendship.
I am an ISN Support Specialist for Sclero Forums, which is our online support community with message board, photo gallery and blogs.
I live on the West coast. I received my nursing degree in the early 1980's, and pursued that dream for many years.
Then I returned to school and received my Masters in HealthCare Administration. I was in charge of medical operations for a large medical facility for several years. In 2005, I branched out on my own and started a consulting firm. I consulted with various medical facilities assisting them with any operational issues they may have. I truly loved it, but now I am retired.
I was first diagnosed with autoimmune problems in 1999. My symptoms were widespread body pain, especially in my legs, hips, shoulder, and neck. I had a positive ANA of 1:640. I was quickly shuffled off to a rheumatologist. He performed many other tests and stated time would tell.
Over the next year I had increased joint pain, Raynaud's, and skin changes which prompted my rheumatologist to do more tests, and the tests came back positive for CREST (Limited Systemic Scleroderma). My major symptoms at this point are severe fatigue, joint and muscle pain, Raynaud's, gastric motility problems, and heartburn (GERD). I have the RET of CREST so far and it appears the beginning of C, and have started developing skin thickening in my forearms and chest. Since then I have been diagnosed with Sjogren's.
I had a personal low point with my health during the winter of 2005, then I found this support site and it's been very helpful. I am looking forward to getting to know each of you in my role as a support specialist and I hope you will find the same comfort and support in Sclero Forums that I have.
Please feel free to e-mail me at pamela-roland@sclero.org anytime. |
