In a collaborative initiative titled “Dress with Confidence. Walk with Freedom,” Hong Kong actors Cindy and Zhang Dalun partnered with a team of doctors to support individuals living with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. The event featured a symbolic fashion runway walk aimed at boosting self-confidence and reducing stigma surrounding these chronic conditions.
The Campaign
The initiative began with participants walking together, sending a message of solidarity. Cindy addressed attendees, emphasizing that no one should be defined by their illness. “Please believe in your intrinsic value and beauty. Disease cannot define you. With confidence, everyone can create their own style and enjoy life freely,” she said. Zhang reinforced the importance of medical support, stating that while these diseases require long-term management, patients are not alone. “With advancements in medicine, conditions can be controlled,” he noted.
Personal Stories
Zhang shared deep personal connections to the cause, revealing that a close friend struggled with psoriasis for nearly two decades, experiencing hair thinning and discomfort. After consulting doctors and starting biologic therapy, the friend’s condition improved dramatically. Zhang also spoke about his 9-year-old son, who has faced a severe, undiagnosed skin disease since birth. Triggers such as lack of sleep, allergies, or activities like horseback riding cause flare-ups, leaving the boy scratching until he bleeds. “Seeing him suffer is heartbreaking,” Zhang said. “This has given me true insight into what families endure.”
Cindy discussed her family and career trajectory. With her children now in school, she has more time for acting and aims for a “one drama per year” schedule. She recounted how her son surprised her with a school performance, showcasing hidden talents in singing and drawing after months of secret practice. This experience reinforced her belief in fostering confidence from a young age.
Broader Impact
The campaign highlights that psoriasis is more than a skin condition; it profoundly affects mental health and social interactions. Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder causing rapid skin cell buildup, while psoriatic arthritis adds joint pain. Both can lead to isolation if untreated. Events like this normalize conversations around chronic disease and encourage early medical intervention.
Next Steps
For those affected, experts recommend consulting a dermatologist or rheumatologist to explore treatment options. Biologic therapies, as mentioned by Zhang, have proven effective for many patients. Support groups and counseling can also provide emotional relief and practical coping strategies.
Looking ahead, both actors remain committed to advocacy. Zhang urged patients not to lose hope, stressing that with consistent medical care and community support, individuals can regain control over their lives. The campaign serves as a broader call for society to embrace those with visible differences and replace stigma with understanding.
