Help me Heal TSW with CAP Therapy

Help Me Heal TSW : Fundraiser for Cold Atmospheric Plasma (CAP) Therapy for Topical Steroid Withdrawal (TSW)

Imagine living in constant pain because of a treatment that was meant to help heal you.

That’s my reality as I battle Topical Steroid Withdrawal (TSW) - a condition caused by use of topical steroids for what was believed to be eczema or psoriasis.

It happens when the skin becomes dependent on these medications, and stopping them triggers red, inflamed, burning skin, unbearable itching, and relentless discomfort.

Simple things like wearing clothes, taking a shower, or even sitting still, become painful.

Living With TSW: My Daily Struggle

Every single day, my skin sheds constantly, leaving flakes everywhere.

Every single day, I feel an intense burning and stinging sensation - it’s like my skin is on fire - constantly.

Every single day, I battle uncontrollable itching attacks, oozing skin, and open sores that leave me vulnerable to infection.

I am in constant pain - there is no break from it.

This condition has taken a huge toll on my mental health. I have hit the lowest place I have ever been in all my life.

I wouldn’t wish this on anybody.

Before this, I was a happy, positive, joyful, adventurous girl who loved life.

I am trying to keep my spirit alive, but 6 months of this has led to times where I don’t even recognise the person I see in the mirror.

The Road to Recovery: 1-7 Years of Healing

Recovery from TSW can take 1 to 7 years. Based on the amount of steroids I was prescribed, it has been estimated it may take 1-2 years for my skin to fully heal.

I’m facing a long and challenging journey - but I’m determined to get there and I am doing all I can to help.

A New Hope: CAP Therapy

I’ve been given hope through discovering a promising non-invasive treatment, called Cold Atmospheric Plasma (CAP) Therapy.

CAP therapy works by:

✨ Reducing inflammation

✨ Killing harmful bacteria that worsen

flares

✨ Stimulating the skin’s natural repair

processes

✨ Helping restore the skin barrier

For TSW sufferers like me, it’s a potential lifeline.

But here’s the challenge: Medical-grade CAP therapy is only available in three places in the world - Singapore, Thailand, and the UK.

Access is extremely limited, and the cost is high.

My CAP Treatment Plan and Costs

Estimated Treatment Duration: 6 months of weekly sessions

Each CAP Session Costs: £180–£270 (depending on the length of the session)

Travel: The treatment centre is a 4-hour car journey each way. I cannot use public transport as the risk of catching an infection is elevated during treatment, more than it already is with TSW alone.

Accommodation: I’m anticipating the need to stay the nights before and after treatments, due to the therapy leaving me physically exhausted.

Work: I am lucky to be self employed, so fortunately, I haven’t lost my job (like many other TSW sufferers), but I am struggling to work at around 30% capacity, and this treatment will cause me to reduce that further.

Companionship: I am going to need someone to accompany me to treatments, to drive me safely, keep me sane and highlight the positives through the pain.

Total Funds Raised Will Go Toward:

✅ CAP therapy costs

✅ Travel and accommodation

✅ All other expenses related to this healing journey

Why I’m Asking for Help

It’s difficult to ask for help and I do feel embarrassed, but I’ve reached the point where I have to try. I can’t do this alone.

TSW is taking a big toll on my body and energy. I am trying my best to keep working, as much as I can, but I now need to take breaks after every two patients just to rest and manage the symptoms, which means I’m at work longer, but earning less overall. It’s challenging and draining, but I’m doing everything I can to keep going while also trying to give myself space to heal.

If you’re able to contribute - no matter the amount - it would mean the world to me. And if you can’t donate, sharing this page is just as helpful.

I will be sharing my healing journey and more information about this condition & treatment on Instagram - @tsw.warriorft

Thank you so much for taking the time to read my story and for being part of my journey ❤️‍

Fran