The Patient's Perspective on Skin Disease in Transplant Recipients and Immunosuppressed Patients

The session focuses on Peter Montesano, a patient who has battled chronic skin disease as a result of immunosuppression from his cancer treatment, particularly for stage 4 non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. After a long journey that began in 2005 and included multiple treatments, including chemotherapy and stem cell transplants, Peter reflects on his experiences with positivity and resilience. He has faced numerous challenges, including graft versus host disease and the emergence of skin cancers like squamous cell carcinoma, leading to multiple surgeries. Throughout his journey, Peter emphasizes that he never felt sorry for himself, choosing instead to maintain a strong attitude towards his health and treatment. He values his relationship with his healthcare providers and continues to view each day as an opportunity for gratitude, stating, "attitude is everything." Peter also highlights the importance of his family in his healing process and expresses a desire to contribute positively to the lives of others, revealing a transformation in his outlook on life since his diagnoses. He concludes with a humorous note about wanting to return as a dermatologist in a potential reincarnation, demonstrating his appreciation for the medical profession that guided him through his battles.