Making a "Choice" to Live

The August/September issue of “Massage” magazine includes a well-done feature on the affect of massage for people with scleroderma. In particular, the story of Sandy, Utah scleroderma patient Choice Kinchen is quite compelling. Choice, who has been active in both the Texas and Utah chapters and support groups, has lived a remarkable life. Now 50, Choice was diagnosed with scleroderma in his mid-20s, and his doctor told him he had less than a year to live. Despite that death sentence, Choice has lived a very active life—he is a cyclist and a big sports participant.

In 2000, Choice suffered a scleroderma-driven heart attack, and took an early medical retirement from the post office. Instead of feeling sorry for himself, Choice took the initiative to become a licensed massage therapist—somewhat of a unique job “choice” since many patients with scleroderma have hands and fingers that are curled up from the disease. He now provides massages in chairs to workers attending conventions in Salt Lake City.

This may not be the last time you hear about Choice!