The symbol for Lupus is a butterfly because of the butterfly rash that appears on the nose and cheeks of most people diagnosed.

Lupus has been a part of my life for many, many years. My mom is the strongest, kindest, most positive and hardworking woman I know. She was diagnosed with Lupus when I was young. It has affected her life and her body in ways I can not even begin to comprehend, even though I have been by her through so much of it. And yet, she fights on with a smile and unending care for others.

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.

Please 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. A generous contribution of $25 or $55 can make a definite impact. What’s more, 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. Every single dollar counts. You can also pass on my page or the Fountation's page to raise even more awareness.

This is a fight I cannot do alone. Together, we can solve the cruel mystery of lupus. Thank you for your generosity and thank you for listening.