Wednesday, May 28, 2003

Mother goes online to help her baby

Shana Hansen, a 26-year-old mother from Blessing, Texas was worried about her infant daughter Lillian.

"It broke my heart to see my baby in such pain," said Shana. "She had a rash all over her little body."

Then, at 10 weeks of age, Lillian was diagnosed with psoriasis. Five months later, when Lillian couldn't swallow solid food, they discovered the psoriasis was also in her esophagus.

Shana turned to the Internet and was quickly led to the National Psoriasis Foundation Web site where she entered a chat room. On that night, Dr. Mark Lebwohl, one of America's leading psoriasis experts and Psoriasis Foundation medical board member, was conducting a "live" chat session.

Shana asked Dr. Lebwohl about treatments for her daughter.

Dr. Lebwohl referred Lillian to a specialist in her town and today her skin condition has greatly improved, while they continue to try to find treatments for her esophagus.

If you or someone you know has psoriasis you can join the Foundation and receive a New Member Support Kit. Call 1-800-722-9166 or www.psoriasis.org.