From Itchy, Painful Skin to Empowerment: How Victoria Navigates Life with Plaque Psoriasis
Editor’s note:
At The Patient Story, we’ve built a platform where real stories empower people facing cancer. But the need for that same kind of understanding and connection extends far beyond cancer to other serious health conditions.
We’re expanding our reach to include more of these lived experiences—because they, too, can be life-changing. Psoriasis is one such condition: a chronic autoimmune disease that affects millions and remains widely misunderstood.
In this story, Victoria shares what it’s like to live with plaque psoriasis—from painful flares and treatment trials to stigma, advocacy, and unexpected sources of hope. If you’re looking for authentic insights into psoriasis treatments, emotional resilience, and the power of community, her voice will resonate.
Victoria, known online as @flyforaginger, is a content creator and social media manager based in San Diego, California. She was diagnosed with plaque psoriasis in 2010 and describes the experience as frustrating yet hopeful. Since psoriasis is an autoimmune disease, finding the right treatment isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach — it’s about trial and error, and adapting to changes over time. Though the process can be exhausting, she remains grateful for the many treatment options available.
Interviewed by: Taylor Scheib
Edited by: Katrina Villareal
Victoria’s first symptoms appeared in middle school as painful, cracked skin on the back of her scalp. By the time she reached high school and college, inflammation on her foot became another concern. What started as a mysterious bump led to her plaque psoriasis diagnosis and, eventually, psoriatic arthritis. Unfortunately, not every doctor she saw took her seriously. A rheumatologist even dismissed her arthritis symptoms entirely, highlighting the all-too-common struggle of being told “nothing is wrong” when, in reality, something very much is.
Determined to find answers, Victoria continued seeking care. While some doctors were dismissive, others went above and beyond to help her access treatment. One dermatologist was so frustrated by her lack of progress that he offered expensive injections at a fraction of the cost. But Victoria knew that couldn’t be her only option—so she sought another opinion and discovered better treatments. This experience reinforced a vital lesson: doctors are experts, but patients know their bodies best. Advocating for yourself is crucial.
Plaque psoriasis impacts more than just Victoria’s skin; it takes a toll on her mental health, confidence, and daily life. Flares can be painful and emotionally draining, especially since stress is a major trigger. And because she’s a content creator, showing her face online — sometimes during a flare — can feel vulnerable. However, sharing her reality has created a supportive community where people openly discuss their struggles, celebrate their wins, and exchange tips. Turning her experiences into moments of education and advocacy has been a game-changer.
As a plus-size woman, Victoria faces stigma not only about her body but also about her skin condition. Some people blame her plaque psoriasis on her weight, pushing harmful and inaccurate narratives. Rather than engaging with negativity, she focuses on spreading accurate information and fostering a compassionate community. She reminds others that psoriasis isn’t anyone’s fault—what works for one person may not work for another. No matter what, everyone deserves respect and understanding.
Over the years, Victoria has tried countless treatments, including over-the-counter creams, prescription medications, steroid injections, and biologics. For eight years, she participated in clinical trials, which provided access to cutting-edge treatments at no cost. While some worked and others didn’t, clinical trials gave her better care than she had ever received elsewhere. She encourages others to research trials as an option, emphasizing their safety and the attentive medical oversight involved.
Victoria urges people to curate their social media feeds with uplifting, empowering voices. Following people who embrace their conditions and exude confidence can make a world of difference. She also emphasizes the importance of mental health care—whether that’s therapy, deep breathing, or simply unwinding with a favorite TV show. At the end of the day, she wants people to know they are not alone. Community, advocacy, and self-love can turn even the hardest days into something meaningful.
Watch Victoria’s story to find out more:
- The doctor said, “There’s nothing wrong with you”—but Victoria knew better.
- How an artistic photo shoot of her psoriasis flare changed everything.
- From stigma to self-love: Victoria’s raw take on living with psoriasis.
- What she learned from eight years of clinical trials (and why she recommends them).
- The unexpected way social media became her greatest source of support.
- Name: Victoria V.
- Age at Diagnosis:
- 19
- Diagnosis:
- Plaque Psoriasis
- Symptoms:
- Painful cracked skin on the scalp
- Inflammation on the top of the foot
- Joint pain in the foot
- Treatments:
- Shampoos
- Creams
- Injections
- Pills
- Prescription medications
- Biologics
This interview has been edited for clarity. This is not medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider to make treatment decisions.
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