Psoriasis: From Diagnosis to Accessory
Photos: Courtesy of Instagram/@flyforaginger
For some of us, a health issue can seem like a burden, a limitation or even the end of the world.
Learning to cope? Some haven’t even learned to accept it. A chance encounter on Instagram led me to Victoria (she/her), who goes by @flyforaginger. I was immediately captivated by not only how she has accepted her diagnosis, but how she educates others and has embraced it instead of hiding it.
While others may cringe at the thought of their rashes, dryness, fissures, flakiness or peeling being visible, Victoria incorporates these symptoms into imagery. She then utilizes these images to spread awareness, acceptance and empower others. As this is Shapely’s “Back to School” issue, it seems fitting to take some time to educate our audience on Victoria’s take on this disease and hopefully inspire others to live in their purpose.
What is psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes the body to attack itself. This disease results in skin lesions known as plaques or scales that are dry and itchy.
When did you journey with psoriasis begin?
I first had an issue with Psoriasis on my scalp in middle school. It started as cracked skin in the crease at the back of my head and eventually spread to my whole scalp. At its worst I had it all over my forehead, in my eyebrows and on my cheeks. Now it is mostly located on my back and butt.
When did you make the decision to go public with your diagnosis?
I decided on my journey of [becoming] a content creator and blogger [that] I wanted to be transparent about all of the things that make me unique. That included my PCOS and Psoriasis. I wanted to show it’s not something to be embarrassed about and create a safe space where my audience could talk about their insecurities too.
What does awareness do for you/mean to you?
Awareness means less stares, comments and questions out of ignorance. A stranger asking “What’s that on your face?” Can be totally devastating to someone and I never want anyone to have to feel any embarrassment like that — yes it happened to me!
Don’t let your disease hold you back from living your best life! You can do ANYTHING!
What is the driving force behind the many shoots where you highlight your skin as opposed to hiding it?
Some of it is to be an advocate for others and then some of it is to highlight my insecurity so I can grow from it. I have never felt more secure and positive about myself as I do when I call attention to the things I don’t like. I think it’s an important step in anyone’s self-love journey — getting over that fear and worry that others won’t accept what you are having trouble accepting. I find it’s often the opposite!
Has your sense of fashion been affected by your diagnosis?
I do tend to avoid wearing black tops/dresses because of the flakes I get if I scratch my scalp. It looks like dandruff which can have a sort of shameful air about it. I don’t think it is anything to be ashamed of but I also don’t want to constantly brush my shoulders off unless I’m dancing to that Jay-Z song.
What do you want people without a psoriasis diagnosis to know and/or keep in mind as they may encounter people with a psoriasis diagnosis?
You never know someone’s story or what they have been through. Be kind to everyone you meet.
What impression would you like to leave on those who share a psoriasis diagnosis?
Don’t let your disease hold you back from living your best life! You can do ANYTHING!
We hope this article inspires you to live out loud, live in your purpose and embrace what makes you different. Thank you to Victoria for sharing her story and educating others. Shapely is always looking for feel good stories to share. If you have a purpose you’ve championed or a situation you’ve overcome that you’d like to share, feel free to contact us.
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