I Have Learned to Be the Best I Can Be
Tuesday, June 17, 2014
By: Rachel DelValle

"I will never be stopped by this disease, I will be me until there isn't any me left."

My name is Rachel DelValle, I was diagnosed with scleroderma in 2000; I have learned to be the best I can be despite what it has done to my body.  I will never be stopped by this disease, I will be me until there isn't any me left.

My right hand cannot completely open, it has those sores on every finger.  I have little muscle mass left on my feet. My pulmonary hypertension has worsened a little, yet it hasnt stopped me from having fun with my grandkids, or making a wonderful Thanksgiving dinner.  It has stopped me from working a full time job, I walk slower, I have very limited strength...but I will never let it stop from doing what I want to do. I have 3 very athletic grandsons that I will never disappoint.  I will play catch with them, take them camping, fishing, crabbing or whatever they want me to do with them until I can't any longer.  They know I'm sick, they also know I'm strong and  teaching them stamina, pride, and strength.  I have bad winters and decent summers but whatever God has planned for my future is what will be.