When you meet Sofia, it’s hard to miss the beaming smile she wears on her face. I tell her that it’s unimaginable what this warm lady has gone through and still is going through. She giggles at my comment and exclaims, “That’s why I earned myself the subsidiary title of Miss Optimistic in Miss Amazing Malaysia!”
Crowned as the first winner of Miss Amazing Malaysia, a beauty pageant for physically challenged women, Sofia’s ultimate wish is to bring psoriatic arthritis to light. “I was diagnosed with psoriasis at age 12. I didn’t know much about it at the time. I thought it was just a skin problem,” she begins. Psoriasis – a skin condition that causes rapid build-up of skin cells, leading to scaling and red itchy patches – is never a widely discussed disorder. When she turned 14, engaging in sports became a torture. “It started with just my toes. Eventually, moving my joints hurt so much, let alone doing sports. It was frustrating and devastating. I really loved taking part in sports but my chance to enjoy it was snatched away from me.” At such a young age, Sofia thought the symptoms would go away with time, like a bout of cold. And then she learnt that was not the case.
HURDLES TO OVERCOME
Denne historien er fra January - February 2020-utgaven av Her World Malaysia.
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Denne historien er fra January - February 2020-utgaven av Her World Malaysia.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent? Logg på
Beauty The Natural Way
With climate change rapidly threatening the future of Mother Earth, we urgently need to curb further acts of destruction. We speak to Law Hong Mei, founder of The Olive Tree, about building a beauty brand that is sustainable from the core.
Even Pets Need Tummy Care?
For many, keeping a pet is more than just caring for an animal; pets are family members, too. We speak to veterinary surgeon, Dr Wafaa Abdul Washefffrom Pets Corner Sdn Bhd, to find out how your pets can stay healthy with a suitable diet
The Healing Power Of Unconditional Love
There’s a saying that goes, “Until one has loved an animal, a part of one’s soul remains unawakened.” For one woman, these words resonated deeply. An unlikely companion came into her life at her lowest point and changed everything.
YOU'VE GOT A FRIEND IN ME
“More than half of my time is spent with animals, but I enjoy it,” enthuses animal rescuer, Aileen Lee. The story of this selfless lady’s dedication and love for the fur kids she has saved will warm your heart.
MISSION: Catification
We discover why pet proofing your home ensures harmony and safety for both the owner and the cat.
THE ONE WHO'S TAKING ACTION
Best known for her extensively waitlisted Nina bag, Gabriela Hearst walks the talk when it comes to sustainable luxury. The New York-based designer shares her inspirations, dreams and resolutions for herself and her eponymous label.
BORN TO ENTERTAIN
YOU MIGHT RECOGNISE HER AS THE GENTLE AND LOVING MOTHER IN LEE CHONG WEI, THE BIOPIC OF THE BADMINTON LEGEND, OR THE VULNERABLE YET RESILIENT TEACHER IN WET SEASON, WHICH HIT THE CINEMAS IN MARCH. SOME OF US MAY HAVE SEEN YEO YANN YANN ON THE BIG SCREEN PLAYING VARIOUS CHARACTERS FOR MORE THAN A DECADE. STILL, SHE NEVER FAILS LEAVE HER AUDIENCE IN AWE OF HER ACTING PROWESS.
THE TRUTH BEHIND FAUX FUR
Is imitation fur still a feasible alternative in this modern, fashion-forward world? Nadhirah Othman uncovers how the fur industry – both real and fake – brings a detrimental impact to the well-being of our planet.
Surprising reasons WHY YOUR KID is under performing in school
You’re understandably frustrated that your child isn’t living up to her potential. But before you blame her attitude, check if these conditions are hindering her academically.
A PAWSITIVE' Life
Like in many parts of the world, pet culture has seen exponential growth in Malaysia. In this issue, Lorraine Chai discusses pet therapy, a method of treatment that is gaining traction, and also some of the pet trends you don’t want to miss out on.
