Risako Imai has been living with psoriatic disease since the age of 10, a journey marked by resilience, self-discovery, and a deep commitment to helping others. Now in her 30s, she reflects on years of living with symptoms that were initially misunderstood. Her first signs of the condition appeared as scales, flaking, and persistent itchiness on her scalp, leading to a misdiagnosis of seborrheic dermatitis. It was not until she was 25, when symptoms began appearing on other parts of her body, that she finally received the correct diagnosis of psoriasis. Like many people living with psoriatic disease, Risako experienced not only the physical discomfort of the condition but also the emotional burden of feeling isolated and misunderstood. During some of her most difficult moments, stories shared by others living with psoriasis became a powerful source of healing, helping her feel seen and giving voice to struggles she had once found impossible to express.
Inspired by the comfort and strength she found in shared experiences, Risako is passionate about being a Psoriatic Disease Ambassador and supporting others who may be navigating the condition alone. She hopes to create the same sense of connection and encouragement that helped her, particularly for children and young people growing up with psoriatic disease. As a mother to a young son, she is especially motivated to help build a future where psoriasis is better understood and where people living with the condition can thrive without stigma or unnecessary hardship. This vision has become her life’s mission. She continues to pursue opportunities to raise awareness, foster understanding, and empower the psoriatic disease community with compassion and hope.
Nansad Nep
Age: 32
Location: Nara, Japan
Types of psoriatic disease: Plaque psoriasis, Guttate Psoriasis
Languages: English, Japanese
