Taking an active role in managing your disease

Al C., Age 59
Living with psoriasis since 1967

Fifty-nine-year-old retired civil servant Al C. was anything but happy while he struggled to find a way to help manage his psoriasis. Diagnosed as a teenager, it wasn't until 1994, after a serious bicycle accident, that his psoriasis flared, covering almost 80% of his body. He retreated and hid from the world. As Al describes it, "I didn't like to look at myself. I didn't want to talk about it or have anyone even raise the topic with me."

For years, Al searched for a way to manage his psoriasis that fit his needs and his lifestyle. But things didn't really begin to change until he realized just how important it was to learn as much as possible about his disease. He discovered that the more he knew about psoriasis, the more comfortable he felt discussing his options with his dermatologist. Al often took advantage of his membership with the National Psoriasis Foundation and went to their website (www.psoriasis.org) to do his own research. Armed with new information related to the potential causes of psoriasis and ways of addressing them, Al was better prepared to have an informed, productive conversation with his dermatologist. Together, they discussed his options, carefully weighing the risks and benefits of each.

Today, Al feels that by learning all he can about psoriasis and teaming with his doctor, he's putting himself in a better position to find a balance between managing his condition and living the life he wants to lead.