MY JOURNEY …..I began having symptoms in 2014 when I was 43 years old. I had been battling with health issues and constantly fighting trying to find out what was wrong with me. By 2016 I was diagnosed with LUPUS (SLE) along with its partner in crime, Antiphospholipid (APS blood clotting disease.) 50-60% of lupus patients will also have this. I’ve had my kidneys shut down and I also have genetic kidney disease which makes it tricky since lupus loves kidneys too. In the process of all of that medical craziness going on, my immune system started to decline. I then found out I’m IGG deficient and had to start receiving plasma for years to strengthen my immune. Since 2014 until today, I have had memory loss, seizures, 2 strokes, a pulmonary embolism, mono 8 times, shingles 8 times (resulting with sever nerve damage), pneumonia 5 times, RSV, cellulitis 5 times, diverticulitis 3 times, rashes, lesions, intestinal abscess, hip surgery, Cushing disease ( adrenal and adrenal tumor) removed, osteoarthritis, multiple UTI infections, fevers, bone and muscle pain, avascular necrosis in both shoulders, hip surgery, and just finished my 2nd reconstruction surgery on my double mastectomy from breast cancer. I have Hashimoto’s, inflammation of all of my joints and severe muscle and bone pain, Migraines, (sometimes they are literally debilitating) along with memory loss. I SAY THIS NOT AS A VICTIM BUT AS A “SURVIVOR” AND JUST TO SHED LIGHT ON WHAT LUPUS CAN DO TO A PERSON. Honestly the list goes on. I have spent so much time fighting lupus and all that comes along with it for so long. I focus on what I can control, medication, prayer, and support from loved ones and POSITIVITY (so important) and that’s the way I handle it. Most days Im positive and I have the will to keep fighting. By the Grace of God, the love, support, and understanding from my amazing support system, have all truly been a blessing in my recovery and in my healing. I am so deeply grateful for everyone in my life. I have support from my family and friends which has made such an impact on my recovery and my mental health 100%. I’m blessed in that way SO BLESSED AND GRATEFUL It has humbled me and has shown me true appreciation for even the smallest of things in life. It has taught me to be thankful and present in every moment, no matter how small. I truly have survived all of my worst days and will continue to do so! I have faith and I will continue to fight this fight! I am ready to take my fight to another level now in hopes that one day there will be a cure for current and future Lupus fighters and survivors. I think Fundraising and walking for a cure will also make me less angry at lupus. If I can help someone, anyone, count me in. This kind of Fighting back will continue to help me heal and keep me moving forward. I want to give back, try to make a difference, and help all who I can. I would be very grateful and appreciate any donations or anyone who would like to become a member on my team. Thank you to all of my supporters and everyone who has already joined my team. Let’s get this going !!!!