Teresa Smith – Volunteer & Infuse Buddies Ambassador
I have been on Medical Disability since 2013 for severe anxiety disorder (panic attacks) and depression. And at 60, in August 2021, I was diagnosed with IgG Deficiency and started SubQ (subcutaneous IgG injections). I just didn’t feel I would get better after all the years of asthma, bronchitis, sinusitis, and pneumonia. I took prophylactic antibiotics. With the SubQ, but I could not tolerate sticking myself with needles, so I transitioned to IVIG. But I continued with infections.
When I moved to Cincinnati, Ohio, I had to go back to SubQ until I found a new doctor. It was almost 6 months until I could get an appointment, and when I did he wanted me to continue SubQ as it was better for my system instead of IVIG. I was NOT happy with him as he was more concerned about my asthma instead of my immune deficiency. I did have a PCP so she kept me medicated because I was still getting infections. I finally found a very reputable immunologist with recommendations, which took 4 additional months to get that first appointment. I’m glad to say he cares, He put me on IVIG and always lets me talk about how I feel first and he listens. I am blessed. We are still working on issues as I’m having breakthrough infections. But at least I’m happy for the most part.
I found Think of me Please while browsing the internet for groups with immune deficiency. I started playing THINK (Bingo) and I was hooked. I am involved in many different activities. I just love everything I have done and look forward to learning and helping more.
I have 1 biological daughter (Sarah) with her 2 boys (Noah and Brady) and a bonus grandson (Landon). I have a bonus daughter (Kim), with her 2 grown children (Maddy and Alex), with Maddy’s second grader (Benton). I am also a great Grandma. YES, I said a GREAT Grandma – which I am very proud to be. And for fun, I am a personal jewelry consultant with Paparazzi, home of the $8 jewelry.