Hi, my name is Judy King and I was first diagnosed with scleroderma in November 1997. However, I first noticed my fingers turning white during very cold weather in 1993, and through my own research, I diagnosed myself with Raynaud's.

When I was diagnosed in 1997, it was because my middle finger on my right hand become infected on the tip and just under the nail. My family doctor treated it with several antibiotics which did not help. Then, he decided to do a blood test to rule out lupus, which it did, but instead it showed I have scleroderma.

My finger became progressively worse until in March 1998 I was told that amputation was necessary. My rheumatologist referred me to a neurosurgeon who performed a digital sympathectomy on my right hand and, thank God, my finger was saved.

I have esophageal difficulties, including swallowing, GERD, severe heartburn, and problems with different foods. Pain all over my body is my constant companion because of scleroderma, and I also have 7 herniated discs in my lower back.

I have just recently had to quit work and file for my Social Security Disability. I do not worry about my future, I just take one day at a time.