June 2025: Leucopathy treatment
3th times-June 3
Today, All of family is visiting Daegu for dermatology and pediatric appointments. Fortunately, the pediatrician’s office is conveniently located near our dermatology appointment.
While at the pediatrician’s office, I learned about a nearby dermatologist who previously treated a child with hemangioma at Gyeongbuk Hospital. I subsequently took my daughter to see this dermatologist, but unfortunately, we were unable to see the doctor due to a lengthy wait, despite waiting for an hour.
I will need to schedule another appointment to address my daughter’s hemangioma, as her treatment is incomplete. My son, who has leucopathy, recently underwent laser treatment.
4th time-June 10
His doctor reported some positive developments in my condition, although I didn’t fully grasp the specifics. Nevertheless, I find this progress encouraging.
He prescribed medication to be taken twice daily for a week, but unfortunately, it’s not covered by insurance and will cost 10,000 won.
5th time-June 18
The weather was quite warm, and I unfortunately missed a few buses on my way to the subway station. I also had a longer wait than anticipated for my son’s appointment. The journey to the doctor’s office and back from Yeongcheon to Daegu was quite extensive.
The doctor mentioned an improvement in his skin tone, but I asked for further explanation as I didn’t fully grasp the details. He clarified that previously lighter areas were becoming darker. It’s always reassuring to hear of progress, even if the specifics are unclear. Nevertheless, I carefully examined my son’s hands and face for any other symptoms. I noticed some areas of leukoderma on his hands. While I’m hopeful about his improvement, I still have some concerns.
6th times-June 20
Today, I’m taking my son to Daegu for an excimer laser treatment. The journey by public transport takes about two and a half hours, so I’ve prepared some cucumbers and cherry tomatoes, and purchased milk for him along the way. This will allow me to offer him snacks as needed, which should save us time compared to our last visit when finding suitable food on the return trip proved difficult.
The doctor also recommended using Tegaderm to cover my son’s hands after applying cream before bed, just as he did last time. He kindly checked if I had Tegaderm, which I confirmed, and the clinic will be sending a video demonstrating its proper application via KakaoTalk. Their thoughtful and considerate aftercare is truly appreciated. Thank you.
7th times-June 24
My son’s leucopathy requires weekly visits to the doctor, one or two times a week, which has become our routine. The laser treatment is brief, only about five minutes, but the travel to and from the clinic takes more than four hours. The extended sitting has unfortunately caused me some back pain, which persists even when I try to sit up straight. While this back pain is temporary, the frequent trips are placing a strain on my body. I’m uncertain about the duration of my son’s treatment, and the significant time commitment for parents is quite burdensome. The long-term implications make continuing this treatment seem rather daunting.
I considered maintaining a positive attitude and incorporating extra walks in Daegu, both during my commute and elsewhere. However, I realized that whenever I pushed myself, I felt an urgent need to return home quickly, leading to a rushed and easily frustrated state of mind, particularly when missing public transport. For instance, upon boarding a bus, I immediately focused on connecting to a specific subway schedule, leaving no room to simply appreciate the journey. Initially, my clinic trips were intended for other purposes, but they’ve become part of my work routine, leaving little time for anything else. I made a conscious effort to fully engage with my son without distractions like my phone or books, simply sitting and reflecting. In these busy, often overwhelming days, I found it valuable to have moments of neutral, quiet contemplation.
8th times-June 27
Observing my son’s face and hands during our journey to the doctor’s office, I was saddened to notice the increased visibility of lighter patches on his skin. The most effective treatment involves laser therapy twice a week, which presents its challenges. Following the treatments, I find myself feeling fatigued at home, although I feel better when we are outside with my son after the clinic visit, and I need to be mindful of this.
I’ve found a brief nap or simply closing my eyes for a few seconds on public transportation provides some relief. Despite not being fully rested, I spend the rest of my time caring for my son, whether it’s gazing outside or having short conversations with him. The picture of his hand shows the application of a Tegaderm before bedtime, but the medication often wears off overnight due to his tossing and turning and unconscious touching.
