Kiersten, a 22-year-old student nurse from Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, appears to lead a normal life walking her dog, Charlie. However, beneath the surface, she battles a hidden trauma—Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), a debilitating skin condition characterized by painful abscesses and boils across her body. Kiersten’s journey with HS began during puberty when she noticed lumps forming under her armpits, neck, groin, and breasts. Initially misdiagnosed as ingrown hairs, these lumps developed into painful boils filled with fluid, often requiring daily medication to prevent infections.
For years, Kiersten endured agonizing pain as doctors struggled to identify the cause. The boils would enlarge, eventually rupturing and causing weeks-long drainage. Embarrassed and uncertain, Kiersten lived in secrecy, enduring cycles of healing and new lesion formations until a dermatologist finally diagnosed her with stage three HS. This severe form of the condition led to significant scarring and the development of interconnected tunnels beneath her skin, complicating treatment and exacerbating the risk of infection.
To manage her condition, Kiersten experimented with various treatments, from laser hair removal to natural remedies like heat packs and organic oils. Despite these efforts, she faces daily challenges and the looming risk of sepsis if the abscesses burst. Hospitalizations and surgeries have become routine, including a complex procedure known as “de-rooting” to remove affected tissue and tunneling systems.
Despite the physical and emotional toll, Kiersten found solace in online support groups like the Hidradenitis Suppurativa support group on Facebook. Encouraged by the community’s support, she decided to share her journey on social media to raise awareness and provide comfort to others battling HS.
Kiersten’s bravery in speaking out underscores the importance of raising awareness about lesser-known conditions like HS. By sharing her story, she hopes to empower and support fellow sufferers, reminding them they are not alone in their struggles. As she continues her studies while managing her condition, Kiersten remains determined to advocate for greater understanding and resources for those affected by HS.
