Crystal R: Morphea

My name is Crystal and I am thirty years old. I have morphea. I was diagnosed with this when I was ten. It started on my stomach and then spread to my legs.

One day when I was at school I was called to the office and asked if my parents were abusive. This was the last time I wore shorts for a long time. I was mortified.

My mother took me to a skin specialist and all I remember was that this could spread all over and there is no cure. I left the doctor's office in tears. My mother then told me to stop my crying as I was not dying.

I realized over the years that my skin would get very itchy when the Morphea was active. I now have Morphea on my back, most of my legs and some on my arm. I felt like a freak growing up and I felt so alone. Morphea limited my social life as I would never allow anyone to see it unless they were close friends. I was unable to keep a relationship with a man as I could not bear being humiliated if my little secret got out.

It was not until I was twenty seven that I finally found someone who would not be pushed away, as he loved me. I thank god for him. We recently created a miracle, our son.

This is something I never thought I would ever have. I still am reluctant to wear shorts, but in time I hope that I will feel strong enough to deal with the ignorant people who have no idea how much a snicker, staring or rude questions can hurt someone's feelings.

Thank you for listening to my story.