"Leia's journey with Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) began with a misdiagnosis, followed by a terrifying two-week period as her condition worsened dramatically before she could see a dermatologist. Looking back, she believes the subtle signs of HS may have started as early as age 12 or 13, misunderstood as typical puberty changes. The Early Days: Misdiagnosis, Pain, and Isolation Her official diagnosis at 18 opened the door to an unimaginable reality."
"The physical pain was severe, marked by multiple abscesses in intimate, unimaginable places-making even the simple act of walking a challenge. But the toll of HS was not just physical. It was deeply social and mental. The condition completely changed her social life, creating an isolating experience where shame reigned."
Leia experienced early, misinterpreted signs of hidradenitis suppurativa during puberty, followed by a misdiagnosis and a rapid worsening over two weeks before dermatology care. Diagnosis at 18 revealed severe disease with multiple abscesses in intimate areas that made walking and daily life painful. The condition created intense social isolation, shame, missed classes, and eventual school dropout. Therapeutic work on body image led to a boudoir photoshoot that began in fear but produced profound self-acceptance, helping Leia bridge the gap between feeling empowered and actually embodying that confidence.
Read at BlackDoctor.org
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