Let's Talk About My Weird Hands

He describes genetically long, skinny fingers; teasing from around age 11 caused hiding and clenched fists, though he now accepts them. Thailand’s itchy hand rash began after one month, progressed to infected swelling and immobility, and repeatedly returns without corticosteroid cream. Symptoms disappeared in Japan, affected his sister in Thailand, and he is recovering from fever, headaches, dizziness, and voice changes.

He shifts from shame about appearance toward acceptance, but remains dependent on recurring treatment for Thailand-linked skin problems.