Renata’s T.S.W. Journey

We all may be walking beside each other, but our stories are never the same.

Name: Renata Feiner

Age: 47

Work: Stay at home grandma – if I had been working in corporate I would’ve had to quit

Date of Withdrawal:

First (1/1/15) Second (1/1/17)

What type(s) of steroids did you use? 

Betamethasone, triamcinolone, prednisone (oral) , advair (inhaled)

Are you on any other medication?

I just started Dupixent. Have been on LDN for just over a year.

Do you have a supportive doctor?

Yes

What is/was your favorite comfort product?

Fingerless gloves and fingerless compression gloves (but my bathtub is definitely my favorite!).

What is the hardest thing you’ve had to endure during your withdrawal?

The mental battle has by far been the hardest thing.

What is one thing you are grateful for during the withdrawal process?

A supportive partner and family.

How did you discover you had TSW?

My partner Kent found your blog. It was the answer we had been searching for. Thank you again!!!

What were the first tell tale symptoms you experienced?

Crazy insomnia (up 80 hours, sleep 1-3 hours, repeat), full body rash and insane itch. Red sleeves showed up quickly, too.

What is one memory during the withdrawal that you will never forget?

Screaming in pain. Literally. I thought the nerve pain in my back was going to kill me. I had no idea the body could experience such pain and live.

How is your TSW journey going?

I’m just shy of my 6 year anniversary and this summer had a full body flare that felt like the first years. I was so defeated. I knew I had to do something – enter Dupixent. I still struggle every day with my skin. Hoping Dupixent gives me some much needed relief.

If you had a call to action for the medical community, what would it be?

To learn about, recognize and support those going through TSW. And of course to prescribe TS and steroids differently (safely).

What is a pastime you use to help during TSW?

Netflix

What is something you wish to share with the community?

Get a really good support system set up. They will be key in going through this process.

What is a quote you live by?

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

What resources help during TSW?

  • Your blog (brwren.com)
  • TSW Facebook groups

What is your instagram handle?

@renfein

Thank you, Renata.

We love you. We see you. We are you.

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