Hi, I’m Teresa Thomas and I would like to introduce myself as an AlphaNet Coordinator.
I live in Yankton, South Dakota. I enjoy the outdoors and all it has to offer. I especially love golfing. I spend a lot of my time with family. I am very blessed to have my parents, sister, brother, and family all living within 13 miles of each other. I have two nephews and one niece that mean the world to me.
I was diagnosed with Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency in 2006. I was originally diagnosed with asthma. However, the medications prescribed by my physician made no difference in my health. It was a short time later that my physician was looking at my lung x-ray and asked his business partner if he had any suggestions. Once his business partner learned my age, which at that time was 29, he suggested a blood test for Alpha-1 due to the emphysema that was noticeable in my lungs. I was diagnosed with Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency and began my Prolastin-C treatments in November 2006.
Although I am limited in most physical activities, I continue to work at staying active, as it enables me to live a pretty normal life. I am very thankful for the doctors I’ve had, Prolastin-C therapy, and the support of my AlphaNet Coordinator since my diagnosis, which have all helped improve my quality of life.
I worked in the insurance industry most of my adult life. After my first husband passed away in 2008, I decided to return to college hoping to someday work in the hospice field. I obtained my Masters in Social Work in 2015. By that time, I was unable to pursue a career in Social Work due to my health, so I am now honored to have this opportunity to work with and support other Alphas.
I look forward to talking with you and hopefully meeting you in person one day.