My name is Alicia, I was diagnosed with Lupus SLE at the age of 17 and have been on this roller coaster of ups and downs for over 15 years. It has affected a lot of major things in my life such as; strength, mobility, sicknesses and my ability to work and have a successful career. 

As many of us lupus warriors have similar stories, our struggles and chronic symptoms can differ with each individual. However, we have one thing in common; the ability to keep swimming and stand up over and over again no matter how many times we get knocked down by our disease. 

 I am excited to finally take the leap and be apart this year's Walk to End Lupus Now event! With the support of my team, we will join so many other warriors and supporters in OCNJ on May 18, 2025.

It would mean the world to me if you joined me either by lacing up your sneakers or by donating to my fundraising page : Team "Weeshie’s Warriors"  

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.  Together, we can solve the cruel mystery of lupus. Thank you for your generosity!