Systemic scleroderma ("hard skin") is an autoimmune connective tissue disease. An overproduction of collagen may cause hardness, or fibrosis, not only in the skin but in many of the body"s tissues and organ systems. Scleroderma Coping Strategies carefully describes the disease mechanisms of scleroderma, reveals the psychological challenges sufferers face and explores the relationship between contemplative or spiritual reality and the healing process.