Back toMedically reviewed in November 2021
Ashley L. does not let atopic dermatitis hold her back from living life to the fullest.
Transcript
[MUSIC PLAYING] ASHLEY L.: The advice that I would give to others with eczema is that you are so much more
than your eczema. You are-- sorry, I'm getting emotional.
I'm Ashley L., and this is my confessional.
I am 29 years old from New Jersey. I was diagnosed with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis, also
known as eczema, at a very young age, maybe about two months old. My eczema was up and down throughout
my whole entire life. My lowest point happened in 2014. And my body was experiencing one of the biggest
flareups I've ever experienced in my adult life. Eczema doesn't just affect my body physically.
It affects it mentally and psychologically. What I do now to find relief is I really focus on these internal mental healing practices,
like meditating and journaling, doing yoga anything that really brings me calm and peace.
My diet has changed significantly over the period of my life. The foods that are always going to be stocked in my pantry
is fruits, nuts, and my protein shakes. Exercise has had a significant influence
in managing my eczema. Even when I am flaring up, I'll still make it to the gym
because I know afterwards I'll just feel so much better. What I do to find relief in my medicine cabinet
is apply these high-quality creams that really support me in managing my skin.
What makes me more than my condition is just who I am outside of my condition. I am a joyful being.
I love laughing and just really growing and learning about who I am and just doing my best to get the most out
of this life. You are so much greater than your eczema. You are a human being who can live and can enjoy life
to the fullest, aside from having your eczema. Eczema is just part of who you are.
It is not who you are. [MUSIC PLAYING]
