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I was diagnosed with lupus when I was 13 years old and just starting my first semester at Beckman High School. I was looking forward to participating in many activities, making new friends, and enjoying this exciting chapter in my life. My enthusiasm, however, was shattered when I woke up one morning unable to walk and in considerable pain.

I was rushed to the hospital and underwent a battery of tests. Several anxious days went by before my doctor confirmed that I had lupus, a disease for which there is no cure. She told me that my immune system had attacked my joints, and immediate steps were required to prevent it from destroying vital organs. I would have to take a daily regimen of drugs and injections for the rest of my life to manage my symptoms and control the pain from rheumatoid arthritis, a secondary manifestation of lupus.

I am resolved to be part of the solution and not sit idly by in self-commiseration. I am joining thousands of people across the country for the Walk to End Lupus Now® fundraising walk. I hope that you will join me either by lacing up your sneakers or by donating to my fundraising event.

​2022 WALK TO END LUPUS NOW

DATE: Saturday, October 1, 2022

LOCATION: Mason Regional Park 18712 University Dr., Irvine, CA

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!