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Anita A: Sister of Systemic Scleroderma Patient

My sister, Vicki, has systemic scleroderma. She has had a heart transplant and a kidney transplant. It has been amazing to our family the courage and stamina that she has through all that she has endured.

She was diagnosed sixteen years ago. She received her new heart ten years ago and is now beginning to have some heart problems with possible rejection. She has had one heart attack and is in congestive heart failure as we speak. My sister is in the hospital this evening.

I was looking for more information when I came across this site.

She has had a toe amputated and a finger amputated. She has also had bypass surgery on her foot to help with the blood flow. This is a horrible disease.

She suffers with Raynaud's disease and has esophagus problems along with dental problems too. She has to have a shot every day (blood thinner) for the rest of her life.

She is an amazing person with a wonderful attitude.

I wish each of you the very best.

To Contact the Author

ISN Story Editor: Judith Thompson Devlin

Judith Thompson Devlin is the ISN Story Editor for this story. She is also lead editor of the ISN's wonderful Voices of Scleroderma book series!

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