I was hospitalized in March of 2020 around the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, but I tested negative despite having all of the symptoms TIMES TEN. The doctors did not know what was wrong with me and I ended up being told that I had double pneumonia at the time. Even after my hospitalization, years went by of muscle and joint pain, trouble breathing, losing circulation in my hands/toes and extreme fatigue. I did eventually catch COVID, so doctors were telling me that I was a “long hauler” and that my symptoms would eventually go away on their own. One late night last August, I was experiencing excruciating joint pain to the point I would wake up crying from the pain. I went to urgent care and that’s when I was told I should get tested for autoimmune diseases. Weeks later, my ANA blood panel lit up like a Christmas tree and my CT scans were apparent as well. In September of 2023, I was diagnosed with lupus and interstitial lung disease(permanent scarring on both of my lungs).
It has been an interesting journey in the present and leading up to my diagnosis, but despite the day-to-day challenges faced, I am committed to spreading awareness about this chronic illness and hope you can support me along the way.
I am joining thousands of people across the country for the Walk to End Lupus Now®. I hope that you will join me either by lacing up your sneakers or by donating to my fundraising page.
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! There is no donation too big or small. Every single dollar makes an impact!
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!