Spotlight on Women's Health
Janice Verbaro and her husband
Inside the Interview:
Janis Verbaro’s first signs of lupus appeared when she was 38. However, she was not diagnosed until she was 60. After being diagnosed with myasthenia gravis and Sjögren's syndrome, she still suffered from pain and a red butterfly rash on her face. She finally received her diagnosis by a renowned rheumatologist who specialized in lupus.
Janis is a retired school teacher. She believes that retired life is easier and less stressful. She says a positive attitude and an active lifestyle helps her cope with her autoimmune diseases.
Janis lives in New Jersey with her husband. She is the grandmother to five grandchildren and enjoys spending her summers at her beach house.
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Home > Spotlight on Women's Health > 2009 > Janice Verbaro
Janice Verbaro
Interview with a Woman with Lupus
After suffering for 10 years and being diagnosed with two other autoimmune diseases, Janice Verbaro was finally diagnosed with lupus. Read about her symptoms and how her quest to find answers led her to a diagnosis.
When did you first start noticing that something might be wrong?
When I was 38 (I’m now 65), I started having vision problems and shaky muscles. I had the typical red butterfly rash on my face. I still get that rash on my face when I am over-tired or under a lot of stress.
What other symptoms did you have?
Because I have a few different autoimmune diseases, it’s difficult to distinguish which disease causes which symptoms. But I did develop panic attacks and periods of depression. I had to give up playing on two tennis teams and long-distance driving.
How long did it take for you to be diagnosed with lupus?
After 10 years of testing and visiting various doctors, I was diagnosed with myasthenia gravis (meye-uhss-THEEN-ee-uh GRAV uhss). At that time, there was no real concern about lupus. I had severe skin rashes all over my body except for my hands, feet and face. The doctor never tested for lupus and just treated me with steroids. About four years ago, my skin outbreak was so bad that my family doctor sent me to a different dermatologist and a rheumatologist, both of whom specialized in lupus. Both doctors diagnosed me with the form of lupus that primarily affects my skin. As a result, I currently take Plaquenil twice daily. In addition, I was diagnosed with Sjögren's (SHOH-grins) syndrome, another autoimmune disorder that makes my eyes and mouth extremely dry.
How did you cope with the diagnosis?
Since I have so many autoimmune diseases, it’s hard to tell which one causes discomfort, pain, or some depression. I really think I handle things well by trying to have a positive attitude and keeping busy. For example, I was a junior high teacher at the beginning of my illness and continued to teach until I retired at age 62. Also, I love to be in the sun, but I know that with over exposure I do not feel well. So, I have to protect myself when I am outside.
Were you aware of the new National Lupus Awareness campaign – http://www.couldihavelupus.gov?
I wasn’t aware of the campaign, but since it’s so new, that doesn’t surprise me. I think it’s a wonderful campaign. The web site is informative and accessible. Getting the word out is definitely important. I’ll be sure to let my friends and colleagues know about it!
What kinds of advice would you give to other women living with lupus?
Coping with lupus is not as bad as not knowing the problem for years. I suggest that, if you’re not happy with your diagnosis or treatment, get a second or third opinion. Also, if your doctor approves physical activity, I recommend being active as much as possible. Being active has really helped me cope with lupus.
Content last updated May 1, 2009.
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