
I was diagnosed with lupus when I was 25. I'd had symptoms that we later realized were lupus-related for as long as I can remember. At the time, the family practice doctor said he was sorry, but there wasn't much they could do for lupus but give me steroids. This was dangerous advice; not only does lupus cause significant damage when left untreated, it can cause preterm birth -- and did for our second child. Since then I've been on chemo drugs, transplant drugs, steroids, anti-inflammatories, and lately the new biologics, Benlysta and Saphnelo. I've had lupus-related problems in my heart, lungs, blood, central nervous system, and kidneys. Worse yet, it's affected our daughter, who was diagnosed at 15. I'm grateful for the work the LFA does sponsoring research -- we've made such strides in the nearly 30 years since I was diagnosed, and I have hope that I'll see a cure in my lifetime. And finally, there's an athletic challenge for me!!
6 miles in 6 days to Help End Lupus!
Join me and support the mission of the Lupus Foundation of America! My goal is to complete 6 miles in 6 days and raise critical funds for the estimated 1.5 million people living with lupus in the United States. Your donation will 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!
Did you know?
- Lupus is a complex disease that is hard to define. It strikes without warning, affects each person differently, and has no known causes or cure.
- While lupus mainly affects women between the ages of 15-44, men and children are not spared.
- 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.
- Only three drugs have been developed and approved by the US Food and Drug Administration specifically to treat lupus.
Let's end this cycle now! By making a donation today you are joining the fight against lupus!