The K-P Curse

THE K-P CURSE

Around about when I was eight
I can’t recollect the precise date
My body went through a peculiar change
The pathogenesis of which is strange

One fine day there was a rash
Inconcealable by scarf or sash
Along arms and shoulders it spread
Little bumps – all raised and red!

The doctors said it was probably allergic
Would go away with an antihistaminic
Only time would prove them wrong
This atopy was really strong!

The little bumps – they persisted
All forms of treatment – they resisted
Ayurveda, homeo- or allopathy
And even the gram-flour home remedy

Soon my parents and I gave up
Years passed, I grew up
People queried,” Ew! What are those?”
Within me, resentment arose

“Why me? Dear God!” I felt
“Why a disease that can’t be dealt?
Why not some fancy form of allergy
Like asthma? At least I’d get sympathy!”

When I joined medical college
I gained some useful knowledge
I found the name of my malady
“Keratosis Pilaris” – said dermatology

I read a lot about my disease
Nothing could put my mind at ease
Steroids, salicylic acid, emollients
No guarantee of success with any treatment!


With an attitude of “Never say die!”
All possible measures did I try
Bottles of cream and money – all in vain
The spots would go, only to come back again!

Defeated I went to my cosmetologist
“There’s no cure.” - Was the gist
She gave me hydroquinone to use
Like treating cancer with apple juice!

A realization grew within
I can never have flawless skin!
Forever must I live with this curse
And vent myself through verse!