When I was born, apparently I presented with blue hands and feet and was very cold. The Doctors thought I had Raynaud's illness. In those days, in the early 1960’s, there was no central heating and I was always cocooned in blankets to try and keep me warm. As I grew and began to be more mobile, it became apparent that my mobility and balance was restricted and my muscle tone was very poor. A rash began to appear on my face and hands, later described as a heliotrope rash or telangectasia.

After more visits to the local Paediatrician, I was referred to Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, to see a Dermatologist. After many tests I was diagnosed at the age of 7 years with Juvenile Dermatomyositis. At that time there were only a handful of known cases. There followed years of steroid tablets and frequent visits to London. As I was such an unusual case (medically speaking) I was in constant demand for the medical students to examine me. So the years went by and I made a huge improvement in my co-ordination, balance and muscle tone. I was however left with this awful rash predominantly on my face and hands, which is very obvious. I became very self-conscious from the age of 12 years and as a sensitive person, I was hurt and experienced heartache from the cruel jibes from my peers. I did have some very good girl friends and supportive parents for which I am very fortunate.

At about the age of 14 years my Consultant referred me to the Red Cross in London for camouflage advice. This was not a successful outcome at all, I remember feeling even more self conscious as I thought everyone would stare at me being so young and wearing what I thought was “thick” makeup. I began to experiment myself, and for many years wore the Max Factor Pan Stick which made me feel much better as it covered up the marks on my face quite well. I started to have boyfriends, so I must have looked reasonable!

Then I found I could not obtain the pan stick. What was I to use now? I made my own enquiries and managed to obtain samples of Dermablend. I used this with no advice until a few years ago.

With the advent of the Internet, I tracked down the British Association of Skin Camouflage (BASC) and through them was given the contact details of a nurse who lived and worked in the Midlands. I finally, got the advice that I had been craving for many years. This lady had been trained by the BASC and as I was so impressed by what she offered me, I decided to attend the training initiative myself and hopefully pass on the help and advice that I wish I could have received when I was a teenager to others in similar circumstances. So to date, I have completed the course. I am so confident now with my camouflage on (I will not be seen without it) I am enjoying good health. I have been happily married for 22 years; I have 2 healthy teenage children and a career in Audiology at my local hospital. I hope that I can promote the excellent work of the BASC. The camouflage has definitely improved my self-esteem. I can face the world!”

Janelle Jones