Maria survived SJS/TEN, here's her story
My name is Maria Creusa Andrade, I am 40 years old, I was born in Brazil in the city of João Pessoa, and I am a teacher of History and Sciences of Religions.
What triggered the SJ/NET syndrome and how long ago was it?
An anti-inflammatory medication called FOX in July 2019, 6 months.
What were the symptoms?
Burning, severe conjunctivitis, internal and external burns on the body, vomiting and coma.
How was your experience with SJS/TEN?
Excellent I was diagnosed after going through several hospitals so on the fifth day I was admitted to the ICU of the University Hospital Lauro Wanderley in my city João Pessoa where the entire dermatology team and wonderful nurses took care with great care and total attention and speed was surprising.
After leaving the Hospital, what were the side effects of the disease?
The wounds and spots that cover part of my body, eyes sensitive to light and psychologically trying to adapt to the new life.
How was the recovery process and were you followed by medical appointments?
Yes, twice a month I visit my dermatologist Dr. Mohamed Azouis and follow his requests to moisturise the skin, avoid the strong sunlight, and live without fear – at the end of the day, I am a miracle of life.
What were the lowest and highest parts of this experience?
Knowing that every day we have the opportunity to live and be happy even with all the daily difficulties we must enjoy everything we have for today and tomorrow we start all over again.
How has this disease affected your way of seeing life?
Without a doubt it affected my personal life, Today I am getting back to living my life before this illness, of course with more determination and desire for everything to work out without looking back and knowing how to follow a straight line.
What advice would you like to give to those who are or have gone through this disease?
Faith in God or whatever values you believe in and you will go through bad times with a will to overcome challenges.
When you remember this disease or when you feel on a less good day, what do you do to cheer yourself up?
Listen to music, watch a good movie and talk.
What makes you happy every day?
Knowing that I can win another battle and I am alive, and strong, hoping to fulfill my dreams, and of course, my family that I love.