Category: Uncategorized

Bravo Team Janssen

On By Todd BelloIn Uncategorized13 Comments

Philadelphia Freedom was the song playing in my mind as I was walking through the Philly Zoo for the National Psoriasis Foundation .  What a great way to enjoy the Zoo and help fund research that may one day produce a cure.  After twenty four years of having psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis it’s so rewarding to see people come out and walk for our cause.

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Janssen Pharmaceuticals raised the most money for this event.  Team Janssen has always been there to support the psoriasis community.  I appreciate their hard work and dedication to our disease state.  This company is so generous and pso compassionate about the people of the psoriasis community.
I remember reading an article in the psoriasis Advance Bulletin.  The article was discussing new products in the pipeline.  Janssen was conducting a trial on their new medication  (at the time) Stelara .   The medication was a biological medication that blocks interlukin 12 & 23.  Research showed that these were involved with the inflammation that causes the autoimmune system to overreact and produce skin cells 10 times faster then normal.  And that’s the visual effects of the disease.  The medication also prevents further damage to the joints and organs by stopping the inflammation that’s going on in the body.  I’m so grateful to Janssen and their employees because Stelara improved my quality of life for 5 years.  I was totally covered and pso miserable.  Everything hurt and there was no relief from anything I was trying at the time, until Stelara.

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Stelara did the trick for me as you can see from the pictures.  This disease is nasty.
Janssen ( Johnson & Johnson )  also has a app for your phone to donate a picture.  From now until the end of the year they will donate one dollar for every photo submitted up to $25,000.00.  Www.donateaphoto.com everyday and take part in funding research.
Janssen is also in the process if developing a new Biological medication.  The medical name for the drug is Guselkumab .  I attached an article that explains the new drug, just click on the highlighted medical name. Janssen also has a website designed for patients.  It’s called Are You Serious.

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I applaud Team Janssen for their continuous effort to improve patients quality of life.

#psoriasis #skin #spoonie #npf #health #beauty #psoriasisproblems #psa #janssenus #Stelara #psoriaticarthritis #psoriasisawareness #psoriasisproblems #cure #J&J #pharma #medication #il-12 #Wegohealth

Friend of Diet

On By Todd BelloIn Uncategorized4 Comments

Elaine Smith is a 39 year old single mom with psoriasis.  After researching and much work she is able to control her psoriasis by modifying her diet.  She belongs to our support group Overcoming Psoriasis.  Acknowledging her disease and finding fault in her own food choices is how she cleared her psoriasis.  Many have tried diet without success including me.

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As you can see from the photo above I tried just about everything.  I fell short.  But that doesn’t mean you will.  I encourage everyone to try.  You have nothing to lose.  I’m glad I went this route because even though I failed, I was successful reversing my fatty liver disease and some kidney issues.  Plus I was able to shed some unwanted pounds.

Here is Elaine’s story,

“My diet is not as extreme as some people advocate as I believe in moderation.  I don’t eat gluten or dairy as I actually had tests to show that I was intolerant to them.  Besides the gluten and dairy, which is substitute with coconut/almond milk  I also eliminate nightshade vegetables, most processed foods and too much sugar.
I had originally cut out alcohol but I now indulge in a glass of wine here and there or when my friends are over, I think its nice to not let P take over your life
.
The nightshades was something I eliminated duet to discovering on FB that most people reacted to them and after reading Pagano’s book.
I don’t eat red meat but I eat lots of fish, oily fish mainly, Salmon, sardines  etc and chicken.

For grains I have quinoa, rice, sweet potato’s, gluten free pasta/bread etc..  I also eat a lot of pulses, chickpeas, lentils etc..  and I eat a bowl of porridge every morning, I’m fine with oats.  For snacks lots of oat cakes with nut butter and loads of nuts/seeds.  I think I lacked good fats and so have plenty now and dress my food with a good oil.

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I have been actively looking at your groups now and there seems to be a lot of discussion around diet.
The thing is we are all so different and diet doesn’t work for everyone, as far as I am concerned I am in remission, I know that my P could come back at anytime and I see an odd tiny spot here and there in stressful periods.
I think its good to enhance our diet and keep as healthy as we can due to the other ailments we can end up with due to having P.
I love that some are interested in diet changes and appreciate that not everyone will find this works for them.
I am not extreme with supplements either, so I have a high strength fish oil, a good multivitamin and the probiotic, having seen yesterdays discussion I will get a higher strength next time.
And in a nut shell that’s it.  I believe that stress is a huge factor for psoriasis sufferers and this can also help with the symptoms.
As far as topical ointments I only use a cream called Cetraben, its very good, not sure if you have it in your Country?

If you want to know anything else or help with anything then please give me a shout, I’m happy to help where I can.”

I asked Elaine about exercise and here is what she said.

“Yes I do but again it’s everything in moderation!
I exercise at home in the morning!
Either 20 minutes on the exercise bike or a mixed session with a little skipping & light weights in between!
I occasionally fit in a yoga class but not very often due to having an active 2 1/2 year old!
Apart from that I am naturally active & walk a lot instead of taking the car or cycle!”

I also asked Elaine about her water consumption, this is what she added.

“I drink lots of water, never liked juice & I eat lots of vegetables too!
I have a cup of coffee everyday and use rice/coconut milk.”

So there you have it in a nutshell, I hope you find my blog helpful and resourceful.   I work hard on keeping it fresh and educational.   I do this cause I care and I speak from experience.   If you want to take a more active roll I encourage you to join the National Psoriasis Foundation This is the largest organization in the world that represents people with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.

Article written by Todd Bello

#psoriasis #skin #health #spoonie #npf #skincare #beauty #chronicpain #chronicillness #chroniclife #awesome #psobloggers #Novartis #Cosentyx #psa #clearskin #CyndiLauper #FF #pain #rash #creekyjoints #psoriasisproblems #cure #kinkyboots #hair #scalppsoriasis #scalp #red #pain #rash #WEGOHealth @leannrimes @cyndilauper

Comorbiditie of Psoriasis

On By Todd BelloIn UncategorizedLeave a comment

After reading an abstract from JAMA Dermatology I realize how many of us struggle with depression and never seek help from a train professional.   Psoriasis was discovered to be an autoimmune disease not to long ago. Now with all the research being conducted we are finally identifying how psoriasis is affecting our self-conscious, self-esteem, and confidence.  

When I was first diagnosed I never knew what psoriasis was or what it meant to my health.  I thought I would just go to the doctor get a tube of cream and be done with it.  Twenty-four years later I’m saying enough already. When is this ride over.  The purpose of this article I’m writing is to better inform the newly diagnosed patient.  If I knew then what I know now things would of been different.  

This is what it read in the article.
“Conclusions and Relevance, Self-reported history of psoriasis was independently associated with major depression as assessed by a validated screening tool, even when controlling for comorbidities. History of cardiovascular event did not modify the risk of major depression for patients with psoriasis. The severity of psoriasis was unrelated to the risk of major depression. Therefore, all patients with psoriasis, regardless of severity, may be at risk for major depression”.

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NPF/Novartis Inaugural Cycle Event 2015

It’s best to educate yourself and know your options before matters get worse.  You have to take a well rounded approach.  Okay so I was diagnosed with psoriasis what I didn’t know was how people would react to this visual mess.  Let’s face it we live in a vain society.  Blotches on your face and neck are not going to go over so well.
I know what your thinking, alright Captain Obvious get to the point. 

So here’s what I’m thinking you have to take a proactive approach.  Surround yourself with people that care. Get nutritional support.  Get emotional support.  Join a support group like the one I started.  Most of all get moving, exercise!  Eliminate the negative self talk.  When your thinking this immediately do or shift to something positive.  This is habit forming and soon you will be on the right path to healing and control.  Remember you are in control of your thoughts.  Listen to music and really start enjoying life the way it was suppose to be. One thing I’m gonna say that’s really helping me is the consumption of organic coconut oil and exercise.  Plus the medication my doctor prescribed.  So when it comes to your health get your priorities straight. Like my friend Gary said to me and I will never forget, YOUR WORTH IT!

Koebner Response & Psoriasis

On By Todd BelloIn UncategorizedLeave a comment

Your trauma suddenly develops lesions the won’t go away.  The area of skin that was once smooth and spotless is now covered with plaque psoriasis.   A dermatologist discovered this response years ago.  His named is Koebner.  German dermatologist Heinrich Koebner first described the event in 1876. Psoriasis plaques due to the Koebner phenomenon can affect up to 50% of  people with psoriasis. The response can happen each time the skin gets injured.

There are various catalytic triggers for these responses and some of them are avoidable.  For instance sunburn and tattoos.  Several people in our support group Overcoming Psoriasis were inquiring about having a tattoo done.  It’s totally up to you but from my standpoint, not a good idea.
Other avoidable triggers would be cleaning solutions, chemicals, and irritants.  Examples of irritants are working with insulation. These little fibers naturally cause you to itch and scratch.  Wear protective clothing and a breathing device when working with insulation.  When gardening your going to want to avoid poison oak and ivy.  They to will cause a response and are avoidable.

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So some triggers are not so avoidable like an accidental bruise, cut, or scrap.  Or the occasional bug bite or burn.  Even a surgical procedure.  It’s best if your knowledgeable about these triggers so at least you can prevent a flare.

The National Psoriasis Foundation has done extensive reseach on the subject.  If you click on the blue highlighted fonts it brings you directly to the resources your going to want to read.  Injury to the bones was discovered later to bring on psa.  It’s best if you become fimiliar with all the causes and triggers to prevent these incidences.

Article written by Todd Bello
Psoriasis Campaign for a Cure

#psoriasis #skin #health #spoonie #npf #skincare #beauty #chronicpain #chronicillness #chroniclife #awesome #psobloggers #psoriasissucks #psoriasisproblems #findacure  #psoriatic #psa #clearskin #scalppsoriasis #scalp #red #pain #rash #happiness #overcomingpsoriasis #pain  #rash #creekyjoints

Why Market Share for Pharma may produce a Cure

On By Todd BelloIn UncategorizedLeave a comment

Todd Bello's avatarOvercoming Psoriasis

While patients struggle to battle their psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis at home, pharmaceutical companies battle for the best medication in the market place.  What does this mean for the psoriatic?  Well it means better treatments are on the horizon.  It means there is hope for future generations.  It means greater quality of life and less itching and scratching for the psoriasis community. Its a win/win for us patients and the world at large.  Psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis cost tax payers 35 billion dollars in lost wages and disabilities.  People with this disease are often paralyzed in society due to the visible lesions on the skin. The publics misconception is that Psoriasis is “contagious” and “its just a skin condition.”  Recently great efforts have been established to change those false beliefs. I read this article that was publicized by FiercePharma.  I’m delighted, as we all should be, that Pharmaceutical companies are…

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World Psoriasis Day Oct. 29th NYC

On By Todd BelloIn UncategorizedLeave a comment

Free event for those interested:

Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis diseases are making headlines around the world.  Our disease state is finally getting the attention it deserves.  On October 29th, 2015 World Psoriasis Day, Leo Pharmaceuticals will be hosting an event in honor of psoriatic patients around the World.  The event will be happening right here in NYC.  Please take the time to register by clicking
>>>NYC EVENT REGISTRATION <<<

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Article by Todd Bello
NPF Volunteer
Overcoming Psoriasis
Psoriasis Campaign for a Cure
National Psoriasis Foundation

#psoriasis #skin #health #spoonie #npf #skincare #beauty #chronicpain #chronicillness #chroniclife #awesome #psobloggers #psoriasissucks #findacure #psoriatic #psa #everydayhealth #FF #pain #rash #creekyjoints #psoriasisproblems #cure #hair #scalppsoriasis #scalp #red #pain #rash #happiness #overcomingpsoriasis #PSORIASISCampaignforaCure #baby #babysmoothskin #woman #men #arthritis

Step Therapy can derail your success!

On By Todd BelloIn UncategorizedLeave a comment

Most of us know psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis are serious autoimmune diseases.  Today scientists are working around the clock to discover new treatments for this insidious disease.  Many treatments recently released from the FDA are proving to be safe and effective.  I personally have been on several.  Lucky enough for me I have good insurance.

These new treatments have a huge impact on the quality of life pertaining to the psoriatic patient.  These new treatments can rapidly change the rate of inflammation occurring in the body.  These new treatments are saving lives.

With so much going on in the world today, it seems our disease has been on the back burner for years.  What can we do to change that.  Well for one thing you have to join the engine that’s driving us towards a cure.  The National Psoriasis Foundation is effectively leading us in that direction.  However there are many obstacles in our way.  One of which I want to bring to your attention today.  It’s called Step Therapy.  Dun dant dun dun…

Step Therapy is when your insurance tells your doctor which treatment your allowed.  How wrong does that sound.  For whatever the reason, and I sure it has to do with Benjamins, your well being is at there mercy.  The NPF is fighting this in DC.

Many individuals are affected by this law.  It’s up to us to change it.  New treatments that are proven to be safe and effective are not being prescribed due to Step Therapy.  Or they are prescribed and the claim is denied saying the patient has to try xyz before abc.

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So this obstacle has to be eradicated.  This is a decision between the doctor and the patient.   True these new treatments are demanding a high price tag.  That to needs to be addressed.   But the main problem is Step Therapy.

Because I’m involved in a very interactive support group Overcoming Psoriasis and our page Psoriasis Campaign for a Cure I hear about these happenings daily.  How can I stop this from happening, I’m glad you asked.  First join these groups and then join the NPF.  Click on the tabs in the menu to contact your local government official.  You provide your address the software provides you the letter and address.  It’s that simple.  Everything is right there at your finger tips.

Part of your healing is helping others.  Trust me it’s the way the universe is designed.  Just go with it.  I know, I know it doesn’t make sense.  Well either does a leaf growing on a tree, or a bee pollinating a flower to grow into a fruit, or when a moth experiencing metamorphosis.

We need to support one another and lift each others spirits.  I’ve experienced this recently with a friend of mine who said three words to me when I was down, “Your Worth it”.  It took a while to sink in.  But when it comes right down to it, we have to lift ourselves up, brush off our shoulders and face this disease head on.  So I want you to repeat those very words to yourself. Your Worth it, everyday.  Motivate yourself to being a better you!

Story written by Todd Bello

#psoriasis #skin #health #spoonie #npf #skincare #beauty #chronicpain #chronicillness #chroniclife #awesome #psobloggers #Novartis #Cosentyx #psa #clearskin #CyndiLauper #everydayhealth #FF #pain #rash #creekyjoints #psoriasisproblems #cure #kinkyboots #hair #scalppsoriasis #scalp #red #pain #rash

Psoriasis gets Expensive

On By Todd BelloIn Uncategorized3 Comments

Educating yourself about our disease is your best defense.  Our disease is very expensive to treat.  Newly diagnosed patients need to do their homework in order to avoid so called “miracle treatments” that just drain your savings.  Even prescription medications can be very expensive if your not covered by insurance.  I highly suggest joining the National Psoriasis Foundation to avoid unnecessary expenses and loss of time.

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This picture of my ankle was taken before I was prescribed a biological medication.   These new medications have been in use for just about 20 years.  With each new treatment they seem to be more effective and safer.  However the price tag is staggering.  Here is an article I read about the costs associated with the medications for our disease.

(HealthDay)—Most patients with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis (MSPP) are prescribed medications, with six-month total direct costs of $11,291 per patient, according to a study published in the October issue of the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology.

These medications also reduce the comorbidities that are associated with the disease.  Psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis if left untreated can cause many more health issues for the patient.  This disease when treated has improved the life quality of many.  Patients are at a much better advantage today then they were just ten years ago.

I’m happy to say after many treatments my disease is controlled and my health seems to be improving.  My disposition on life is much better.  I’m actually participating in life rather then avoiding life.  I have a better outlook and my skin and joints are 100% better.

Support groups like Overcoming Psoriasis have helped me gain perspective about treatment options.  There is also a common bond between its members.  With over 2900 members and growing it’s one of the most ineractive groups I’ve seen.

Article written by Todd Bello
tvsoccerdad@yahoo.com

#psoriasis #skin #health #spoonie #npf #skincare #beauty #chronicpain #chronicillness #chroniclife #awesome #psobloggers #Novartis #Cosentyx #psa #clearskin #CyndiLauper #everydayhealth #FF #pain #rash #creekyjoints #psoriasisproblems #cure #kinkyboots #hair #scalppsoriasis #scalp #red #pain #rash #happiness #overcomingpsoriasis #PSORIASISCampaignforaCure #baby #babysmoothskin #woman #men #arthritis #psoriaticarthritis #wegohealth

LEG MODEL

On By Todd BelloIn UncategorizedLeave a comment

This is a photo of my leg which is now completely clear from #Cosentyx.  My leg was covered with psoriasis and my joints were horrible.   My nails were pitted and psoriasis was everywhere. 
Now I’m participating in life again and I’m working on securing my future.  Thank you Novartis.  I can do the simple things in life like go food shopping, and go to the beach, or even eat at a restaurant.  I feel healthy once again. Life is Good!  I’m so grateful.  Thank you

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                 Overcoming Psoriasis

Thank you Thank you!
Click the link above for our support group

#psoriasis #skin #health #spoonie #npf #skincare #beauty #chronicpain #chronicillness #chroniclife #awesome #psobloggers #Novartis #Cosentyx #psa #clearskin #scalppsoriasis #scalp #WebMD #CyndiLauper #everydayhealth #FF #pain #rash #creekyjoints #psoriasisproblems #cure #kinkyboots #hair #scalppsoriasis #scalp #red #pain #rash #happiness #overcomingpsoriasis #PSORIASISCampaignforaCure #baby #babysmoothskin #woman #men

Tee Shirt club

On By Todd BelloIn UncategorizedLeave a comment

What a lovely way to be in style and fight for a cure.  If you purchase a shirt money will be Donated to the NPF automatically.  Click on this to participate 》》》 Overcoming Psoriasis 《《《

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It’s a win win !

#psoriasis #skin #health #spoonie #npf #skincare #beauty #chronicpain #chronicillness #chroniclife #awesome #psobloggers #psoriasissucks #psoriasisproblems #cure #beauty #creekyjoints #depressed #clearskin #scalppsoriasis #scalp #red #pain #rash #happiness #overcomingpsoriasis #PSORIASISCampaignforaCure #baby #babysmoothskin #woman #men #findacure  #psoriatic #psa #everydayhealth #FF #pain