Scleroderma

In early December, the Republican Conference approved a resolution to end commemorative events such as National Tap Dance Day. They cited Scleroderma Awareness Month as one of the so-called frivolous days.

Scleroderma (also known as systemic sclerosis) is one of the most devastating--and least known--of diseases that affect women primarily. Scleroderma literally means “hard skin,” but it is much more than a skin disease. It is a chronic, often deadly, autoimmune disease that attacks muscles, joints, the gastrointestinal tract, lungs, kidneys and heart.

Although scleroderma affects a greater number of patients than multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy or cystic fibrosis, it receives very little government funding. Until we raise awareness--and, consequently funding for research--a cure will never be found. We urge patients and families to contact their Washington representatives to support scleroderma research. Patients and supporters can contact the United Scleroderma Foundation at (800) 722-HOPE.

NANCY WEMPE, Executive Director

United Scleroderma Foundation

Watsonville, Calif.