My Story
Rozella Frazzini: Living the active life
Psoriasis Foundation member Rozella Frazzini retired from a job in hospital administration in 1991. She believes that retirement, among other things, has helped her psoriasis. In 1995, we shared her story in a front-page article in the May/June Bulletin. She had a chance to share her recipe for success: avoid stress, stay active and keep in touch with other people who have psoriasis.
Recently we checked in with Rozella, who is still living in Albany, Ore., and practicing what she preaches.
Rozella exercises regularly, both at home and at her local YMCA, and is excited about her "beautiful new treadmill." She said that exercise has definitely had a positive effect on her psoriasis. Right now she has a patch on her lower back and once in a while one appears on her hands, but it is "nothing like it used to be."
Aside from exercise, Rozella feels that a big part of the improvement in her psoriasis has been her attitude about it. "It's mind over matter,' she says. 'Get your mind off it. When you look in the mirror, try not to focus on the spots."
Rozella said she is not happy about her psoriasis, and there are still things she feels she cannot do, but she does not dwell on it.
One thing that really helps Rozella maintain a positive attitude is corresponding with her Psoriasis Foundation pen pals. Back in 1995, she had just signed up with the Pen Pal Club and had begun writing to her new friend. Now Rozella corresponds with three different Foundation members. "It's been so helpful," she says. "It gives me an idea of their lifestyles."
She likes being able to help with their problems and gets cheered up by their letters. "I correspond with a woman in California," she says, "and her letters, well, you just have to laugh!"
Another way Rozella keeps her mind off her psoriasis is by spending time with her 7 year-old poodle, Sissi. "She jumps in your lap," Rozella laughs, "and demands attention!"
With three children and four grandchildren to be proud of, Rozella is thankful that she's had "such a lucky life," and she encourages people her age who have psoriasis (and those who don't) to stay active and keep going-no matter what.
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