BBC News and National Eczema Week
Personally, I don’t think there is a lot fo media coverage surrounding eczema. Sure, it may not be a super pressing issue compared to what is currently going on in the world but unless you specifically search “eczema,” you aren’t going to hear much about it. Upon doing some research into eczema, I came across this news article which not only describes someones story surrounding their eczema journey but also mentions National Eczema Week (NEW).
I did not actually know that there was a National Eczema Week, which is quite interesting to me. It shows that there is a want for more exposure for those suffering from eczema and more general knowledge about the topic. Clearly something that is of importance to me, considering this blog. Digging deeper into NEW I discovered that it is from the 12th-19th of September and their main premise is to “unmask the truth about eczema,” by holding surveys and having open discussions. This is something I will definitely be advocating for in the future as it makes me even more empowered to continue to put out information.
The news article speaks about Anna Byard-Gold’s story and how she has and still is struggling with head to toe eczema from day to day. The article is relevant currently for this blog as it gives another perspective other than mine but also shows pictures and real images of eczema. This can show that eczema is so much more than a little rash or sore. Anna would describe her skin condition to that of a rhino, being very thick and dry. My eczema has never been that bad and really puts into perspective the varying degrees to which eczema can affect people. My eczema just made me feel like I couldn’t wear certain clothes but never to the point that it causes me pain when moving or not being able to write, as Anna has endured.
Seeing Anna’s story, it has allowed me to see how having the right mentality is so important. Not letting eczema define you, will allow you to continue to maintain it the best you can and understand how to go about your everyday life. Even though Anna’s eczema was more extensive than mine, she still tries to have a positive outlook, so this will hopefully be inspiring to many eczema sufferers.
The more eczema is spoken about, the more there will be awareness and understanding!