I am fifty-three years old, a wife, mother, grandmother, and a real estate broker in Nebraska. I was recently diagnosed with scleroderma, perhaps diffuse scleroderma, as the pigmentation is symmetrical on both arms.

I am glad to finally have an answer after years of tests with no results. I am interested in knowing more about the first indications of bowel, heart, and lung involvement.

I am presently on several antirheumatic medications, a sleep aid, and a drug to treat neuropathy (burning sensations.)

For the last three years, I have had positive RH factors; they are now negative. What has helped me most with the irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), believe it or not, is to have an instant breakfast shake every day.

I have a good attitude, a great husband, and a supportive and loving family. The hardest part of this was telling my family, as we knew someone my age who recently passed away from complications of systemic scleroderma.