A woman’s journey from what she thought was a stomach bug to being confined to a wheelchair has been shared in a heart-wrenching account. Sophia Cucchiara, 26, initially believed her symptoms of nausea, high fevers, and weight loss were just signs of a common stomach bug. However, her life took a drastic turn when she observed swollen lymph nodes while studying to become a nurse.
After multiple visits to doctors, Sophia was finally diagnosed with Still’s disease, a rare form of early-onset arthritis that causes severe joint pain and damage. This condition, according to Mayo Clinic, can particularly affect the wrists. Sophia expressed her struggles during this time, mentioning how not knowing the cause of her symptoms was the most challenging aspect. She even began to doubt herself, thinking she was exaggerating her illness.
As her symptoms persisted, Sophia had to give up her nursing studies to focus on her health. Despite initially being treated for immune-related diseases like lupus, it wasn’t until she experienced a flare-up in 2021 that she received the correct diagnosis. Still’s disease has no cure, but Sophia is grateful to finally have an answer.
Currently, Sophia manages her condition by taking 12 tablets daily and using pain-relieving patches. While she has had to adjust to life in a wheelchair, it has allowed her to continue enjoying activities she loves, such as holidays and concerts. Sophia aims to raise awareness about chronic pain, invisible illnesses, and disabilities through her story.
Unable to work as a nurse due to her condition, Sophia has completed her studies and plans to teach aspiring nurses in the future. Despite the hardships she faces, she remains determined and encourages others to listen to their bodies and set boundaries. She believes that even in the toughest moments, it is essential to focus on the good times and keep fighting for them.
Sophia’s resilience and strength in the face of adversity serve as an inspiration to many, highlighting the importance of perseverance and self-care in the midst of life’s challenges.