My name is Tara. I was diagnosed with scleroderma in January 2000, but I have had it since April 1997. It only became worse in the new year.

I have shiny patches on my arms and stomach. My skin is tight all over. My hands are the worst; for two years I was unable to write, now I can write a little.

I have disfigured fingers. My fingers have open sores and hurt all the time. They swell up and change colors in cool weather.

I lost weight. It takes me one month to put on one pound. I do not always eat good because food does not always go down. Food gets stuck in my throat. I have to rub my neck as the food goes down, so it does not stick. Then I sometimes have choking spasms when I can't breathe.

I am tired all the time. I take vitamins for extra energy, which helps. I am limited in everything I do. Through all of this, God has given me the grace to make it and live. I am not sure what kind of scleroderma I have, because my organs are affected and my skin is tight plus my hair fell out and my hands hurt.

If someone can please help me, I would be grateful. The doctors I see do not know what to do, and none of the medicine works. So help me please, if you can.