Tania Hunt Age: 30 Occupation: Veterinarian Type of Thalassemia: ß thalassemia intermediate Accomplishments: Realizing a childhood dream to be a veterinarian

1. What are your first memories of having Thalassemia, when were you first aware of your disease?

I was diagnosed at a very young age, so I don't really remember not being aware of the disease. But I started to realize what kind of repercussions it would have in my life around the age of 7 or 8. The first time I remember being hospitalized with a crisis was around the age of seven, and by the age of 8 I knew I could not run as fast and the other kids, and participate in the same activities as my friends. This is also the first time I started to get teased for the way I looked. ( I had a noticeable overbite, and splenomegaly that distended my abdomen.)

2. How did you feel about being "different" than some of the other kids, did it even bother you?

I was different from the other kids in more ways than just my condition. (I was very much a racial minority in my neighborhood and school). I don't know what played more of a role in me feeling different. I was bothered by the fact that I could not do all the sports and activities many of my friends were involved in. That however did not hold me back too much, I played tennis, and softball for a few seasons, and was involved in dance. It was definitely more of a struggle for me than for other kids, but I still did it.

3. When you moved into your teen years, did you have any difficulties dealing with your Thalassemia emotionally?

I think it's hard for me to isolate the emotions I felt in response to the Thalassemia compared to the ups and down any and every teen feels. I often felt different and lonely, because of the Thalassemia, because of my racial background, because I was unhappy with the way I looked, etc. For the most part having Thalassemia didn't, and still doesn't, bother me that much. It is a part of who I am, some days are completely consumed by it, and others days I barely think about it.

4. How did your parents help you to deal with your disease and/or treatment?

My parents were very encouraging. If there was something I wanted to take on (as long as it did not directly endanger my health) they would find a way to help me do it, whether it was dance competitions or musical theatre. My mom was always there with me for almost all my treatments and test. My dad was there too, as often as he could be, but some one had to pay the bills. :-) Even after I went over 300 miles away to college, my parents drove the distance to be with me the few times I got sick.

5. What restrictions, if any, did you have as you got into high school and college?

Most of the things I'm restricted from doing, both then and now are physical. I am a very active person and I wish I could do more. In high school I used to compete in dance. While there was a lot I did there was still more that I could not do. And with this condition there was no amount of practice that would allow me to improve. In college and even now there are new sports that I continue to try, like scuba diving and surfing, and for each I have certain limitations that I may never be able to do.

6. Were you ever hesitant to tell your friends about your Thalassemia?

I was never really hesitant to tell my friends about Thalassemia if the opportunity presented itself. It's not something that you just tell people upon meeting them or even hanging out with them a few time. The subject would usually come up if I got sick or I was having some health problems; then I would explain what was going on.

7. What changes are you anticipating in your treatment in the near future?

I have only been receiving transfusions for the past year. Therefore, I have not needed any Desferal treatments. But, because of the recent blood transfusions, I am anticipating starting the new oral chelator.

8. What advice can you share with other patients with Thalassemia that has helped you to cope with having a chronic illness?

As you get older you realize that every one has their own cross to bear, some people have physical crosses, some people have emotional crosses. Different people have different sized crosses. Your thalassemia is part of who you are. The challenges you face by living life with a chronic condition will give you a very unique perspective on life. Know your limitations, but don't feel defeated by them. This includes the power and choices you have over your health. There are some things that are beyond your control, but there are many things that are within your power to affect. Be informed and make the proper choices for your health.

9. What new adventures are on the horizon for you?

I have always wanted to be a veterinarian, but beyond that I have wanted to be a veterinarian for zoo animals and wildlife. Now that I have graduated from veterinary medical school, and have been practicing as a vet for 2 years, I now want to make the second part of my career goal a reality. If I'm accepted this year (or maybe the next), I will be starting a residency (3 years of more training) to be a zoo and wildlife vet.