Shelby

Shelby

My name is Shelby, I am a 14 year old 8th grader from southeastern Nebraska. I was diagnosed with JDM in March of 2000. I had trouble getting up steps, buckling my seat belt, and was tired and cranky all the time. My muscles ached and I just didn't feel good. I had a rash on my knees, hands, and elbows. My regular doctor was puzzled by my symptoms and referred my parents to a pediatrician in a larger city. After more in-depth testing, she diagnosed the disease (even though she couldn't pronounce the name) and referred us to a Rheumatologist in another city approximately 2 1/2 hours away from my home. My treatment during my illness included physical therapy, Prednisone, Colchicine, Methotrexate, Protopic ointment, and lastly, IVIG therapy. I saw my doctor every other month. I had two "flares", the last one in early 2004. My doctor then recommended the more aggressive treatment of IVIG. I had three treatments in the summer of 2004. I am now in remission and hope to remain that way! I like to dance, sing, and listen to music. I have three dogs: two chocolate Labs and a Lhasa Poo. I also have a younger brother named Sheridan. The hardest part about having JDM for me was the response I got from some of my peers, who were unkind and didn't understand what I was going through. My mom made a web site that has more information if you are interested. http://www.saraspace.com/shelby