Hello, my name is Melissa. I am a nurse, author, advocate, and scleroderma patient.

In 2008, I began experiencing symptoms out of character for my health history. I developed Raynaud’s and Chilblains, both conditions affecting the vasculature. Soon afterward, I also noticed other skin and joint related problems. I sought care immediately from a local rheumatologist. Dozens of tests later, I had no clear answers. I obtained a second opinion from another rheumatologist and stayed under her care for a number of years. The only relevant information I received was that I had some level of autoimmunity, but no definitive diagnosis.

By 2017, my symptoms were worsening. I was noticing repetitive episodes of reflux, heartburn, digestive problems, cardiac arrhythmias, and severe pain. I went for a third opinion and was immediately diagnosed with undifferentiated connective tissue disease (UCTD). Within a short period of time following this physician, I underwent further specialized gastrointestinal testing which revealed esophageal aperistalsis (minimal to no smooth muscle contractions of my esophagus). Recognizing that all these symptoms were pointing towards one ultimate diagnosis (systemic sclerosis), I continued searching for the right physician to diagnose me. Ultimately, I went to Yale University and received my current diagnoses of UCTD (I still have some symptoms of other connective tissue diseases) and Limited cutaneous Systemic Sclerosis (LcSSc). It took me nearly 13 years to finally receive the diagnosis I knew I had from the beginning.

I am a strong advocate for others living with this disease to fight for and obtain the services and treatment they need. In 2024, I wrote a book titled “Invisible: A Nurse-Turned-Patient’s Resource to Living Well with Autoimmune Disease”. It provides education, recommendations, and strategies on living a well-balanced life with autoimmune disease. This is one way I continue to give back and educate others. I also recently joined the Steffen’s Scleroderma Foundation as a board of directors’ member.

Melissa