My name is Jaden Patel. I’m a young SEN dad and before everything changed, I was an energetic, outgoing cocktail bar manager who thrived on people, creativity, and fast-paced environments. I loved what I did, I loved providing for my family, and I took pride in being present, active, and full of life.

But over the past three years, my life has been turned upside down by a condition many people have never even heard of: Topical Steroid Withdrawal (TSW).

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What is TSW?

Topical Steroid Withdrawal is a severe and often misunderstood condition that can occur after prolonged use of steroid creams, typically prescribed for skin conditions like eczema. When the body becomes dependent on these creams and they are reduced or stopped, the skin and nervous system can react in extreme ways.

TSW is not just a “rash” or irritation—it is a full-body condition that affects both physical and mental health.

Physically, it can feel unbearable. The skin burns, stings, and feels like it’s on fire. There are constant flare-ups, intense itching that never truly stops, open wounds, swelling, and cycles of flaking and shedding. Sleep becomes almost impossible. Even basic movements, clothing, or changes in temperature can trigger pain.

Mentally, it is just as devastating. Imagine being trapped in your own body, unable to escape the discomfort even for a moment. The exhaustion, isolation, and loss of normal life take a huge toll. Anxiety, depression, and a sense of hopelessness can creep in as days turn into months, and months into years.

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My Journey

I have been battling TSW for three years now.

In that time, I’ve lost so many parts of my life. My ability to work full-time. My independence. My confidence. Even parts of who I used to be. The outgoing, energetic version of me feels like a distant memory some days.

As a dad, it’s heartbreaking not always being able to show up in the way I want to for my child. As someone who used to lead teams and thrive in a busy environment, it’s been incredibly difficult to accept the limitations this condition has placed on me.

But despite everything, I’ve tried to create something positive from this experience. I’ve started TSW communities to support and empower others going through the same thing. I’ve connected with incredible people around the world, built friendships, and tried to be a source of encouragement for those who feel alone in this battle.

Even so, the reality is—I am still not healed. I am still struggling. And I am still unable to fully return to the life I want to live.

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A Chance to Heal

After years of searching for answers and trying to manage this condition, I’ve found hope in a treatment called Cold Atmospheric Plasma (CAP) therapy, available at Skin Solace in Winchester, UK.

This treatment has shown promising results for people suffering from chronic skin conditions like TSW. It works by promoting healing at a cellular level, reducing inflammation, and helping the skin repair itself in a way that conventional treatments haven’t been able to do for me.

For the first time in a long time, I feel like there is a real opportunity—not just to manage symptoms—but to actually heal.

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Why I Need Your Help

Unfortunately, this treatment is not covered, and the cost is beyond what I can manage, especially while being unable to work full-time.

That’s why I’m reaching out.

If you’ve taken the time to read my story, thank you—it truly means more than I can express. Even just being heard is something I’m deeply grateful for.

If you’re in a position to donate, no matter how small, it would bring me one step closer to getting my life back—to being a healthier dad, to returning to work, and to simply living without constant pain.

And if you can’t donate, sharing this page would mean the world to me.

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All I want is the chance to be healthy again.

Thank you for reading, for caring, and for any support you can give