As Paige LaCombe celebrates the New Year, she can’t help but think about her journey to get to where she is now.
Growing up in Lafayette, LaCombe was 8 when she was diagnosed with a rare and serious disorder called Stevens-Johnson Syndrome. The disorder is often described by doctors as burning from the inside out. LaCombe started with flu-like symptoms and a crawling sensation under her skin that quickly escalated to her skin beginning to blister and peel off.
She was rushed to Shriners Children’s Hospital in Texas, where doctors diagnosed her with SJS and treated her condition. LaCombe had the most serious form of SJS, called toxic epidermal necrolysis, where the burning rash covered 80% of her body.
LaCombe said she credits the care she received with helping her get through her SJS.
“It’s free treatment, and they take care of you,” LaCombe said. “If you need a ride from the hospital to your hotel room. You’re getting that full wrap-around care.”
LaCombe said after you’re healed and doing better, Shriners Children’s Hospital doesn’t forget about you.