My name is Yuvti Rampersad. I am a dentist by profession. At the age of 27 I was suddenly diagnosed with a rare autoimmune disease called Dermatomyositis.  Doctors cannot pinpoint what causes dermatomyositis and there is very little medical research on it. I went from not being able to lift my hands above my head to being unable to walk within the span of a week. This disease is so rare that it is estimated that 1 in 100 000 people will have it.   Dr. Rampersad Dermatomyositi

Background and Life Before Illness I was a healthy, independent, and active woman. I lived and worked in Johannesburg, was employed as an accountant, and led a full and joyful life. I exercised regularly, socialised, entertained friends, attended church, and managed my home without difficulty. I experienced no significant health problems and lived without physical limitations or chronic employment. I began experiencing pins and needles in my hands and feet, skin rashes, and

Can you tell us about your journey and how it all began? Most people think a diagnosis is just a word on a medical file. For me, it was a moment that completely changed how I saw my body, my childhood, and my future. At ten years old, I went from standing in line at the movies with my family to navigating hospitals, MRIs, and questions no child should have to answer. Suddenly, my life had rules and regulations — limits on movement, sport, and things I once took for granted. I