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Michael's story

After being diagnosed with scleroderma, Michael moved to Majorca where he found the warm weather helped him manage his symptoms. He describes his diagnosis as a new beginning. With his positive outlook and the love of his wife and dogs, he is starting to live in a different way.

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"Just be happy when you have the chance to be happy."

– Michael

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Doris' story

No one expects to develop scleroderma. Doris focuses on the importance of concentrating on the present, instead of the unknown.

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Anna's story

Anna talks about how she has adapted her life to continue to be able to do the things she loves, despite her symptoms.

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Monica's story

Scleroderma may mean you can no longer do some of the things you enjoy. Monica describes how she's learnt to love new things.

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Jessica's story

Scleroderma did not stop Jessica from achieving her goals. She pursued her dreams regardless of the diagnosis.

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Alex's story

Symptoms of scleroderma can feel frustrating and unfair. Alex talks about how she overcame this and now looks for joy in everyday life.

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Mandy's story

Staying positive can be difficult, but Mandy uses craft and creativity to continue to stay optimistic.

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Mike's story

It’s easy to be fearful in the face of disease, but Mike and his wife, Alison, are an inspiring example of how you can lean on each other.

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Susan's story

Some of the symptoms of scleroderma are easy to miss. Susan candidly recounts what her experiences with scleroderma have taught her.

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Maria's story

A positive mindset can help you overcome some obstacles of scleroderma. Maria talks about the importance of changing your outlook.

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Lorraine's story

Symptoms effect everyone differently. Lorraine is able to live an active lifestyle and has continued teaching exercise classes, despite her diagnosis.

Lorraine's story
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Grazia's story

Scleroderma can feel like the most important issue in your life. Here, Grazia explains how she overcame her fear to concentrate on her family.

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Rute's story

Having a safe space can help with the stress of managing scleroderma. Rute discusses her love for the beach and the calm that it brings.

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Teresa's story

Despite her diagnosis, Teresa continues to travel and share new experiences with the people she cares about.

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Joep's story

Joep looks for solutions in life. Using 3D printing, he creates tools that lessen the impact of scleroderma on his everyday life.

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Danièle’s story

Danièle has lived with scleroderma for 22 years. She continues to find happiness in simple everyday pleasures and the company of friends.

Danièle’s story

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Evidence suggests that mindfulness can reduce stress. If you are feeling anxious, try practicing mindfulness in your daily life.
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Your emotions are part of you. It's important they are taken care of. If you find expressing your emotions difficult, try a more creative approach.
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Patient organisations and support groups

Many groups and institutions support and represent people with scleroderma. Get contact details for your local organisation.