In 2007 I was diagnosed with an incurable auto-immune disease called "Scleroderma".   Scleroderma is a chronic, autoimmune connective tissue disease whose symptoms typically include some or all of the following: sensitivity to cold in fingers and hands, thickening of the skin, shortness of breath, difficulty swallowing, joint stiffness and pain and damage to internal organs.

Scleroderma attacked the largest organ in my body, which is my skin.  My skin hardened, my fingers contracted, and I suffered from constant discomfort, itching, and pain.  I was unable to continue my job as a high school choir director and was forced to retire early due to the disease.

After my diagnosis I was determined to do everything I physically could do to raise awareness of this awful disease and educate others. 

Since 2007 I have been able to speak to hundreds of people about the disease, travel to Washington DC to raise awareness and share my story with politicians, speak at Patient Education days sponsored by the Michigan Chapter of the Scleroderma Foundation,  and attend the National Scleroderma Foundation Conference in Boston, Mass. where I was awarded the 'Messenger of Hope" award from the foundation.

Now almost 4 years since my diagnosis I continue to be committed to raising awareness of this horrible disease, and raise financial support that will go towards patient support services, awareness, and research.

Ken and I had the privilege of participating in our first "Stepping Out for a Cure" last June 26th.......just one day after my precious Mom passed away.  We walked on our property....and for the first time in three years...I was able to walk slightly over one mile:)  I walked in memory of my Mom....and in memory of the many lives that have been defeated by scleroderma.

This June 26th....Ken and I will once again "Step Out for a Cure"......and will walk two miles around the beautiful walkway at Lake Cadillac.  We hope to be joined by family and friends who are in town....and have set a lofty goal of $5,000 .

We are asking for your financial support in our endeavor and will be grateful for any amount you can give!! Please consider today what you can do to help find a cure for scleroderma so others will not have to suffer.

Thank you so much...May God bless you:) 

Ken and Judy

 

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