A mother is cautioning others about a rare and life-threatening illness she was diagnosed with following a period of intense stress. Kristina Hamilton initially attributed her anxiety to her divorce but grew concerned when she noticed changes in her fingers and began experiencing gastrointestinal problems.
Doctors identified Kristina, 43, with diffuse systemic scleroderma, a chronic autoimmune condition that affects the skin, muscles, bones, internal organs, and blood vessels. The disease causes the body’s immune system to attack itself, leading to excessive collagen production.
Now, four years post-diagnosis, Kristina, a stay-at-home mom, is uncertain about her future. She expressed the devastating realization of the disease being incurable and life-threatening, impacting her vital organs unpredictably.
Diffuse systemic scleroderma is rare, with approximately 100,000 cases worldwide, resulting in limited research and no known cure or prognosis for deterioration. Kristina, a mother of three from Florida, shared her fears of leaving her family prematurely and losing independence due to the disease’s progression.
Kristina advised individuals noticing skin changes or early symptoms like joint pain and swallowing difficulties to seek medical attention promptly. She emphasized the importance of embracing life for those diagnosed with terminal illnesses.
The exact cause of diffuse systemic scleroderma remains unknown, but it is believed to be triggered by genetic factors activated by stress, trauma, or illness. Three years post-diagnosis, Kristina remarried with the support of Wish Upon a Wedding, a non-profit organization granting wishes to individuals with terminal illnesses.
Reflecting on her wedding, Kristina expressed gratitude for the charity’s role in turning a period of uncertainty into a joyful and memorable occasion. She felt appreciated and deserving of happiness during a challenging time in her life.