I’m Walking to End Lupus. Join Me?

Imagine a day when doctors can say, “There is a cure for lupus.” That’s why I’m taking action in the fight against lupus. Join me as I participate in Lupus Foundation of America’s Walk to End Lupus Now™ in North Carolina to raise critical funds for the estimated 1.5 million people living with lupus in the United States.

It's been 10 years since I recieved my Lupus diagnosis. I have been attending Walk to End Lupus now events for 10 years. Over the years, my Lupus has attacked my skin, kidneys, heart and lungs. I support the local North Carolina chapter of the Lupus Foundation of America because they create a community for Lupus thrivers like me. They have support programs and amazing people who support me.

The importance of raising awareness about Lupus is that there are so many people who don't understand the impacts of this disease. It took 2 years to get an official diagnosis even though I had symptoms since I was younger. Since my diagnosis, I've seen countless doctors. Many doctors, will say "It's your Lupus", which isn't a treatment, it's just a way for them to say "Sorry, we can't do anything, it's Lupus". 

I have countless stories about ER visits, ignored symptoms, infections, hospital stays, doctors who don't believe my symptoms. But this fundraiser is about more than the invisible parts of my disease. I like to use this fundraiser to celebrate the support from my family and friends. I wouldn't have gotten this far without them. They take care of me and check on me constantly just like the Lupus Foundation of America, North Carolina chapter. 

Did you know?

• Lupus is a mysterious and misunderstood autoimmune disease. It strikes without warning, affects each person differently, and has no known causes or cure.
• Lupus symptoms can be severe and highly unpredictable and can damage any organ or tissue, from the skin or joints to the heart or kidneys.
• While lupus can strike anyone at any time, 90% of people living with lupus are women. Women of color are at especially high risk.
• Only one drug has ever been developed and approved by the US Food and Drug Administration specifically to treat the disease.

Will you make a donation to help me reach my personal fundraising goal and support the Foundation's efforts to improve the quality of life for all people affected by lupus? If your employer offers a Matching Gift Program to employees, you may be able to double your contribution with just a little bit of paperwork. Trust me, it’s worth the effort! Every single dollar counts. Together, we can solve the cruel mystery of lupus. Thank you for your generosity!