In 2007, my brother Dave and sister-in-law Theresa participated in their first Walk to End Lupus fundraiser.  They were joined by their daughters, Tia and Calleigh, and my parents.  This was the original team.  Theresa had already been diagnosed with lupus for a number of years at that time.  She continues to wage a strong battle against the disease every day.  Over the years, the team grew and changed.  Collectively, "Lupus Blows, Theresa Knows" has raised over $181,000 in the fight to find a cure or better treatment.  Last year alone, it raised a monumental $25,225, their best-ever result and placement in the top five in the country for the second year running.  Mom and Dad took part in every lupus walk (other than 2023 due to logistical issues).  Whether walking themselves or cheering on team members at the finish line, my dad was passionate about this cause and always looked to participate in any way he and Mom could.  As most of you know, Dad died in April this year.  Aside from raising funds to work toward finding a cure for lupus, we'll do so in memory of Dad.  As it happens, my husband Richard and I will be visiting the family in Arizona this year to coincide with the Lupus Walk.  Many of you are aware that I fight my own battles against different conditions, but I'm going to do my absolute best to walk, limp, or otherwise crawl in order to get myself across the finish line.  It would be most appreciated if you'd consider sponsoring me, and thus the team, in this endeavor.  A gift of any size is most appreciated.  So that was the personal appeal --- here's the rest of the more generic verbiage!  xxx _____________________________________________________________
You can make a difference by donating 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. Trust me, it’s worth the effort! Every single dollar counts.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.Lupus is hard to diagnose, but the Lupus Foundation of America is working to make life easier and more comfortable for the estimated 1.5 million people living with lupus in the United States, and up to 1 in 1,000 in the UK.  Together, we can solve the cruel mystery of lupus. Thank you for your generosity!