Time for an update on all things Alopecia Universalis in my world…it’s been 3 months since I last updated everyone. Since September, I have been attending my martial arts classes twice a week to get more tags to earn my black belt. The good news is that I got another tag so I’m close to having enough to meet the criteria for the next grading early next year.
The most recent tag I received was for self-defence. I’m still trying to learn my patterns so I can progress to the next level but memorising patterns isn’t my strong suit.
I missed December’s grades due to the doctor’s orders, who told me to take it easy after a recent change in medication. On this new medication, I have to be closely monitored as both medications lower my blood pressure considerably. I was feeling quite light-headed and tight-chested, having a little trouble breathing and getting a tingly feeling on my head when I took a deep breath, so the dermatologist advised I take half the dose. It seems to have settled down and though not ideal for as quick of a result as if I was taking the full dose, I’m still hopeful that in a few months of suppressing my immune system, I might see some hair growth but so far, no luck. It’s not a long-term solution, but any chance to remember that feeling of having hair (even if it’s just a tiny patch for a brief moment) will be worth it, it’s a mental thing, like a fond memory that makes you smile even though the moment is lost in time. I am being careful to be extra healthy so as to not put my health at risk, since my immune system is on holiday.
I really want to thank the AAAF for their continued support with my sponsorship, it helps me to stay resilient mentally when I’m able to stay healthy physically, through my taekwondo and continuously having new goals to strive toward at ATI helps me to keep the momentum in the rest of my life.
Last week, at my army cadets’ end-of-year parade, I was surprised to receive the Encouragement Award. It means a lot because, despite some setbacks I’ve faced this year with my health, my 507 Unit at Joondalup recognises my efforts and resilience thus far. Also, two of my adult cadet staff leaders have also received the same award in past years, so I know I’m in good company.
I’ve included the pics from my cadet award and my martial arts tag, but as it was an end-of-year party, I’m not in cadet uniform so I’ll have to wait till the New Year to re-do the photo wearing a uniform with my medal.
Mum said that she would have been nervous about me starting the immunosuppressant therapy if it wasn’t for the AAAF’s Facebook page, reading other members’ comments about their medications having success, especially other teenagers; these comments gave her peace of mind and made her feel more comfortable going ahead with the decision, so I also want to thank you for that.
The AAAF is honestly the best line of support for anyone new or veteran, where alopecia is concerned, because you get to read about it and interact with real-life people who live with it every day, they can tell you what’s what and what they’ve tried; what has been successful or unsuccessful and remind you that you’re not the only fish in the pond.
I’m really looking forward to what 2023 holds and regardless of what may or may not sprout on my scalp…I wish everyone good health and good luck in their own endeavours. Thanks, everyone.
Love, Alopecia 
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