Meet Kerry! After years of being chronically sick, Kerry’s rheumatologist noticed something wasn’t right. That moment led to a whirlwind of tests, ultimately leading to her diagnosis of hypogammaglobulinemia, a pneumococcal defect, and a T-cell disorder in 2023.
Now, Kerry is using her voice to advocate for others living with PI. We hope you enjoy her inspiring story!
Please share a brief overview about your overall experience living with PI.
I was getting chronically sick - including a bout of sepsis. I didn't really think anything of it. I was at a routine visit with my rheumatologist, and she was surprised that I had low IGG. That kicked off a whole whirlwind of tests and whatnot. I was ultimately diagnosed with hypogammaglobulinemia, a pneumococcal defect and a lymphoproliferative disease.
How and when were you diagnosed? Which specific PI disease do you have?
Hypogammaglobulinemia - 2023 - low IGG with a pneumococcal defect and t-cell disorder.
How has treatment impacted your life? How did you decide this was the correct treatment for you?
Both positively and negatively - obviously, I am alive. I am healthier than I was. My diagnostic process was not as prolonged as some. I can still work! I have a wonderful support network with my friends and family. I am also much more of a recluse and afraid of crowds, afraid of the insurance company, and my world has gotten a lot smaller.
Do you share your story with others online? If so, tell us what made you decide to do so.
If there is ANYTHING I can do to make anyone's life easier or be a resource for others like me, I am here. I would also love to use my voice and my resources to advocate for others like me. I feel like the more we talk about these things the less stigma there will be.
If there's anything else you'd like to share with us, please do so below.
You are not alone and it's scary but resources like this one are lifesavers. Lean into the community that surrounds and supports you. You will understand this, you will get treatment, you will learn how to thrive.