Extraordinary Patients

GPA Patient’s Advice for Others Facing a Similar Diagnosis: Remain Positive—You Can Beat This

In late summer of 1992, Dan Prozialeck began experiencing chronic congestion, coughing and sinus infections, throat pain, and excruciating joint pain. He had been going to a local urgent care facility for months for the sinus infections and each time he saw the doctor, he was put on a stronger…...

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Steroids and Snow Peas: A Tale of Victory Over Vasculitis

“How in God’s Green Earth can YOU be so chipper?” queried a fellow shopper after I assaulted her cerebellum with my litany of GPA/Autoimmune/ Primary Immune Deficiency/Diabetic/Tracheal Stenotic/Neurotic High Dose Steroid Syndrome/Tracheostomy Reliant/Rituxan Receiving/Anemic diagnosis. I’m the President of the “But You Don’t LOOK Sick!” Club, and am in training…...

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Physician with GPA Continues Medical Career Despite Facing Obstacles and Discrimination

By Gary Salzman, MD (Edited by Nina Silberstein) A diagnosis of vasculitis changed my life, but I didn’t let it ruin it. Today, I’m a 69-year-old retired physician living in Scottsdale, Arizona, who mainly practiced Geriatric Medicine, but I was also certified in Internal Medicine, and Hospice and Palliative Care.…...

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PAN Patient Raises Vasculitis Awareness Through Flash Mob Dances in Washington State

In light of the symptoms and treatment options, a diagnosis of vasculitis can actually be a positive, life-changing experience for some patients. After 26-year-old Jessica Kent was diagnosed with polyarteritis nodosa (PAN) in 2015, she discovered a passion for working in healthcare and a greater appreciation of life. She learned…...

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Pinochle Night Brings Friends Together During Pandemic

By Fran Crotty My 85 year old mother splits her time between living at her Florida condo in the cool months and her Long Island, New York condo in the warm months. When in Florida, she plays in several bridge games each week. My brothers and sister have always been…...

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